"I'm Bored!"

When you give your kids some down time during this spring break, let me challenge you to face those dreaded words, "Mom, I'm bored" with boldness. My mom used to always say to me, "Only boring people get bored." I have to admit that I did not want to be a boring person, but I think I like the below options better.

1. "Let's think of something fun to do." - Direct them to the game closet, new craft supplies, the water hose, the outdoors, blankets for a fort, new books from the library, etc.
2. "If you can't find something to do, I can think of lots of things you can help me with." Give them some examples of jobs such as organizing, dishes, etc. You may be surprised that sometimes that actually do want to help you. 
3. "If you are bored, then serve the Lord." Be ready with some good ideas for serving others like helping an elderly neighbor, making a card or cookies for a friend, talking to a lonely relative on the telephone. Let them think of those that they know that may have a need.

Share with other moms how do you respond to those dreaded words, "Mom, I'm bored?"

Take a Break from Busyness - Mom Mondays

Happy Spring Break!  I know this is a crazy idea, but have you thought of actually taking a break this week by staying home, relaxing, and doing as little as possible. Our regular busy schedule of dragging kids from school to gymnastics, to soccer, to piano, to church, etc. is so tiring. I don't know why we are tempted to try to schedule outings everyday during our spring break as well, instead of taking a break from the busyness. Are we scared of what might happen if our children have a little "down time"? We continuously entertain our children and then we wonder why they lack creativity and why they don't know how to entertain themselves. I know it will be hard, but try to stay home and do nothing at least for a couple days this week. You will be surprised at how much you and your kids will actually enjoy it, once they learn to relax.

How do you encourage creativity in your children? Do you have any good suggestions about fun activities your family likes to do while relaxing at home?

Don't miss my next blog about what to do when you hear those dreaded words 'Mom, I'm bored'?