Learning Through Play – A monthly parenting & early childhood development column
By Kelly McDonald & Paula Kelly
June 2026
Why “Boredom” is Actually Helpful
“I’m boooored.”
It’s a phrase most parents hear often — and it can feel like a problem that needs to be solved quickly.
But here’s something we’ve learned from working with children over the years:
Boredom isn’t something to fix right away. It’s something to allow.
When children aren’t immediately entertained, something important happens. Their brains start to look for ideas. They begin to imagine, create, and explore on their own.
Boredom creates space for:
- Creativity
- Problem-solving
- Independent play
- Flexible thinking
When children always have something planned or provided, they don’t get as many chances to develop these skills on their own.
That pause — the “nothing to do” moment — is often the starting point for the most meaningful play.
You might notice it takes a few minutes (or longer). That’s okay. The process matters.
Why This Matters
Children need opportunities to initiate play on their own. These moments build independence, confidence, and the ability to generate ideas — all skills that support learning both in and out of the classroom.
One simple way to encourage this type of thinking is to challenge your child to come up with three different ways to use one toy or play item. A scarf might become a cape, a picnic blanket, or a river to jump over. Blocks might become a tower, a zoo, or pretend food. Open-ended play helps children practice creativity and flexible thinking in natural, meaningful ways.
Play Tip: Try This
The next time your child says they’re bored, resist jumping in right away. Stay nearby, offer a calm, “Hmm, I wonder what you could do,” and give them time to come up with something on their own.
You can also encourage flexible thinking by asking:
- “Can you think of another way to use that?”
- “What else could this become?”
- “Can you come up with three different ideas?”
Often, children just need a little space and time before their imagination takes over.
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About the Authors
Kelly McDonald and Paula Kelly are the founders and owners of FUNdamentals, an educational play center located in East Providence, RI. Kelly is an occupational therapist, and Paula is a special educator, each with over 20 years of experience supporting children and families. As professionals and mothers, they are passionate about creating engaging, relationship-driven experiences that help children build confidence, skills, and a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Do you have a topic you would like to see Kelly & Paula cover? If so, let us know by emailing Info@EastProvHospitality.com with “Learning Through Play” in the subject line.
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