Why It’s Okay to Let Your Kids Be Bored: Supporting Brain Development in a Screen‑Saturated World
by Cali Shimkovitz, MEd, RP(Q)
In today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world, many parents feel pressure to keep their kids constantly entertained and occupied. Between extracurriculars, schoolwork, and an endless array of screens, moments of “nothing to do” have all but disappeared from childhood. But what if boredom isn’t something to be avoided? What if it’s actually essential for healthy brain development?
Recent neuroscience suggests that unstructured downtime plays a critical role in the developing brains of children, teens, and young adults. At the heart of this is a brain network you may not have heard of: the Default Mode Network (DMN). Understanding how the DMN works—and how modern life is interfering with it—can help parents rethink the value of letting kids be bored.
What Is the Default Mode Network, and Why Does It Matter?
The Default Mode Network is a collection of brain regions that become active when we’re not focused on a specific task. It’s sometimes called the brain’s “idle mode,” but don’t let that fool you—this network is far from inactive.
When your mind wanders, when you daydream, reflect on your experiences, imagine the future, or even just sit quietly, your DMN is hard at work. It plays a vital role in:
Empathy and understanding others’ perspectives
Creativity and problem-solving
Consolidating memories and making sense of life experiences
For young people – whose brains are still wiring and rewiring throughout childhood, adolescence, and even into their mid-20s – time in the DMN is crucial for emotional and cognitive growth.
How Screen Time Disrupts the Default Mode Network
Here’s the challenge: the DMN is only active during periods of rest and quiet reflection. When kids are constantly stimulated (by video games, social media feeds, streaming shows, or even back-to-back structured activities) the DMN doesn’t get to “turn on” as often.
Excessive screen time has been shown to interfere with:
Attention regulation: Constant novelty on screens trains the brain to seek external stimulation, making it harder to focus during slower-paced, less stimulating activities.
Emotional processing: Without downtime to reflect, kids may struggle to process their feelings and experiences, potentially leading to increased anxiety or mood difficulties.
Creativity: When every free moment is filled with a video or app, there’s little space for imagination to flourish.
Over time, this disruption can have ripple effects on mental health, contributing to difficulties with self-regulation, stress management, and even sleep.
Why Boredom Is a Good Thing
While boredom might feel uncomfortable (for both kids and parents alike) it’s actually a powerful gateway to activating the DMN. When a child says, “I’m bored,” their brain is at a crossroads: they can either reach for external stimulation, or they can turn inward and access their own creativity, curiosity, and problem-solving skills.
Research suggests that kids who experience regular periods of unstructured time develop:
Stronger self-direction and independence
Better coping skills
Greater resilience to stress and anxiety
Enhanced creativity and imagination
By allowing space for boredom, parents give their children the chance to strengthen these essential life skills.
How Parents Can Support Healthy Brain Downtime
Here are some practical ways to support your child’s developing brain in the age of constant stimulation:
Set Screen-Time Boundaries
Create device-free times during the day, such as before school, during meals, and at least an hour before bed.
Encourage “slow tech” activities like listening to music or audiobooks rather than always defaulting to visual media.
Prioritize Unstructured Time
Resist the urge to over-schedule your child’s days. Leave room for free play, rest, and wandering thoughts.
Frame boredom positively: remind your kids that it’s an opportunity to discover something new or let their mind relax.
Model Downtime
Show your child that it’s okay to sit quietly, take a walk without your phone, or just daydream. Your comfort with stillness will help normalize it for them!
Encourage Offline Activities
Stock the house with books, art supplies, puzzles, and other screen-free options to inspire creativity when boredom strikes.
In Summary…
Boredom isn’t a defeat – it’s an invitation for the brain to grow. By providing the space to “do nothing,” parents help their young people nurture a quieter, more reflective mind – one that’s better equipped for creativity, emotional depth, and real-life problem-solving. In the age of endless stimulation, boredom is not a setback – it’s a powerful step forward.
So the next time your child complains about having “nothing to do,” take a deep breath and remember: boredom isn’t a problem to fix. It’s an opportunity for growth.