Boredom’s Sweet Spot: When Doing Nothing Fuels Growth - and When It Backfires

Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families

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25d ago 17:17

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“Mum, I’m bored!” Sound familiar?

In a world of endless screens and instant entertainment, boredom feels like a problem to fix. But what if it’s actually a hidden superpower? Dr Justin and Kylie Coulson unpack the science of boredom - why the right kind helps kids grow more creative, independent, and emotionally steady, and when it tips into trouble. Get quick, practical ideas to turn those “I’m bored!” moments into brain-boosting opportunities.

KEY POINTS

Good vs. Bad Boredom: Occasional boredom in a stimulating environment builds creativity, resilience, and emotional regulation. Chronic boredom in an empty environment links to anxiety and risky behaviour.
Screens & Overstimulation: Devices hijack attention, prevent true mental rest, and can increase long-term boredom.
The Brain on Boredom: When attention fades, the Default Mode Network activates - fueling imagination, identity-building, and problem-solving.
Practical Parenting: Don’t rush to entertain. Provide an “enriched environment” (books, art supplies, outdoor space) and let kids self-direct.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE
“Boredom isn’t a failure of parenting - it’s a reset button for the brain.” —Dr Justin Coulson

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Inside the bored brain: Unlocking the power of the default mode network | PsyPost
Forget Overscheduling vs Bordeom - Self Direction is Key [Happy Families Article]
The Case Against Boredom [Happy Families Article]
Unhurrying Childhood [Happy Families Article]
Fast-forward to boredom: How switching behavior on digital media makes people more bored | Journal of Experimental Psychology
#1045 – The Art & Science of Family Meetings [Happy Families Podcast]

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

Stop Fixing It: When kids complain, calmly acknowledge and leave space for them to decide what’s next.
Prime the Environment: Keep open-ended materials - Lego, art supplies, books - visible and accessible.
Embrace Downtime: Show your own healthy boredom habits: daydreaming, journaling, screen-free walks. Breath.

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