Why Boredom Is Actually Good for Children
Many parents feel uncomfortable when their child says, “I’m bored.”
Our instinct is often to fix it — offer a screen, suggest an activity, or provide entertainment. But boredom isn’t a problem to solve.
At Absolute Martial Arts, working with families across Carshalton, Caterham, Ewell, North Cheam, and Redhill, we often explain that boredom plays an important role in children’s development.
Boredom Creates Space for Growth
Boredom gives children something rare:
• Mental space
• Time to reflect
• Opportunity to initiate
• A pause from stimulation
When children aren’t constantly entertained, their brains begin to explore, imagine, and problem-solve.
This is where creativity and independence start to grow.
Why Constant Stimulation Can Backfire
When children are always stimulated, they may:
• Struggle to occupy themselves
• Become dependent on entertainment
• Avoid quiet moments
• Feel uncomfortable with stillness
This can make focus, patience, and perseverance harder over time.
Boredom helps children practise being with themselves.
Boredom Builds Frustration Tolerance
Sitting with boredom teaches children:
• Patience
• Emotional regulation
• Self-reliance
They learn that discomfort doesn’t need to be escaped immediately.
That lesson supports resilience in many other areas of life.
How Martial Arts Supports Healthy Discomfort
Martial arts includes moments of repetition, focus, and waiting.
In our children’s martial arts classes across Surrey, children learn to:
• Stay engaged without constant novelty
• Practise skills repeatedly
• Focus even when things feel slow
This helps children become more comfortable with quiet effort.
Independence Grows From Unfilled Time
When adults don’t immediately fill boredom, children often:
• Invent games
• Practise skills
• Explore interests
• Take initiative
These moments build confidence because children learn:
“I can create something to do.”
What Parents Often Notice
Parents often report their child:
• Becomes more self-directed
• Complains less about boredom
• Shows improved focus
• Handles quiet time better
Not because boredom disappears —
but because children learn how to manage it.
Supporting Healthy Boredom at Home
Parents can support this by:
• Resisting the urge to fix boredom immediately
• Allowing quiet time
• Encouraging self-led activity
• Valuing downtime
Boredom isn’t wasted time — it’s developmental space.
Supporting Families Across Surrey
At Absolute Martial Arts in Carshalton, Caterham, Ewell, North Cheam, and Redhill, we help children become comfortable with effort, focus, and moments of quiet challenge.
Final Thought for Parents
Boredom isn’t something to fear.
It’s often the starting point for creativity, resilience, and independence.
When children learn they can handle boredom, they grow stronger — emotionally and mentally.