When Your Kid Says “I’m Boredddd!”

146 snips

Jan 13, 2026

Independent play expert Lizzie Assa shares her insights on child boredom and its importance. She reframes 'I’m bored' as a sign of unstructured time, encouraging parents to step back from constant entertainment. Lizzie discusses how boredom can spark creativity and resilience, stressing the need for safe play environments that cater to children's interests. She offers practical strategies for fostering independence, problem-solving, and decision-making through play, while emphasizing empathy and connection in responding to boredom.

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ADVICE

Schedule Boredom Intentionally

Reserve downtime for boredom with the same ferocity you schedule lessons.
Protect unstructured time so kids can practice creativity and rest.

INSIGHT

We Lost Practice Time For Play

Past childhoods included long, repeatable stretches of free play that built skill.
Today's overscheduled lives reduce practice time for independent play.

ADVICE

Check Needs Before Stepping Back

Ensure basic needs and accessible materials before declaring a child's boredom their problem.
Ask if they're fed, connected, and have usable options before stepping back.

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Your kid whines, “I’m so bored!” and suddenly you feel like you have to fix it. Dr. Becky and independent play expert Lizzie Assa reframe boredom as a good thing, show parents how to step out of the entertainer role, and share a few doable ways to build independence, creativity, and resilience.

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For a full transcript of the episode, go to goodinside.com/podcast.

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Screens are a big part of family life, but many parents feel how easily they can get in the way of real connection. The Reset, a national movement from Outward Bound USA, invites families to unplug for 24 hours on Saturday, January 24th and reconnect in whatever way works for them. Learn more and sign the pledge at the-reset.org.

Good Inside is growing up! Listen to The In-Between Years with Dr. Sheryl, for parents of teens and tweens!

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