On the way back from school, Jay saw a boy sitting at the bus stop. He was very sad. Jay asked, “Hey mate, what is your name? Why are you sad?”
The boy replied, “I am Boredom! Nobody wants to be friends with me these days as everyone is busy with their mobile apps! It makes me feel sad!”
Jay responded, “Don’t worry, I would like to be your friend!”
“Boredom”
We don’t like it, and we don’t want our children to like it. We always keep them busy with electronic gadgets or apps when they get bored.
Neuroscience research shows that when the brain is not focused on tasks like scrolling, the Default Mode Network (DMN) becomes active. This network is associated with daydreaming, creative problem‑solving, and out‑of‑the‑box thinking.
Thomas Edison was bored enough to wonder, “What if I trap lightning in glass?” We are missing this kind of boredom in today’s AI world.
Why boredom sparks creativity more than apps
Parents often try to fill every silent moment with screens or activities, not letting a child feel bored. However, there is one secret — boredom is not a gap; it is a gift!
When children feel bored, their minds wander. They invent games, build stories, and explore new ways to play. The wandering of the mind is the birthplace of creativity.
Apps or other distractions keep kids entertained but snatch away their creative imagination.
The next time your child says, “I am bored,” don’t rush to fill the silence with a distraction or device. Let them explore their silence or boredom. Behind it might be their next big idea.
Boredom is a gift!
Do share with us — what is the most creative thing your child has come up with when they feel bored?