The Power of Boredom: How Downtime Fuels Creativity in Children

Many parents strive to constantly entertain and educate their children, from enrolling them in various classes to providing endless screen time. But a recent study by Vivian Gussin Paley suggests a surprising benefit of letting children experience boredom from time to time according to an article from mindful.org.

Paley's research began in the 1990s while investigating the impact of television on children's storytelling. Disappointed by the lack of imagination evident in many stories written by 10-12 year olds, she questioned if television viewing could be a contributing factor. Existing research already suggested a negative correlation between TV and imaginative capacity.

A large-scale study conducted in Canada during the 1980s, a period of television expansion, provided compelling evidence. Researchers compared children in three communities: one with four channels, one with one channel, and a third with no television access. The study was conducted twice - before television reached the town with no access, and two years later. Initially, children in the television-free community scored significantly higher on divergent thinking tests, a measure of imagination. However, once television arrived, their scores dropped to match those of the other children.

This decline in imaginative abilities due to television is concerning because imagination is a crucial skill. It not only enriches personal experiences but also fosters empathy - the ability to see things from another's perspective. Imagination is also vital for driving innovation and positive change. The significance of boredom lies in the fact that children (and adults alike) often turn to screens to escape boredom [Mindful.org].

Paley's later observations revealed a surprising connection between boredom and creativity in various professionals. She interviewed several creative individuals who emphasized the importance of boredom in their creative development, both during childhood and in their current work. One interviewee, writer and actress Meera Syal, recounted how she spent school holidays gazing out the window at the countryside and engaging in activities outside her comfort zone, like learning to bake with a neighbor. Boredom also led her to start journaling, a habit she credits for launching her writing career.

By acknowledging the potential benefits of boredom, we can create a healthier balance for children. While structured activities and educational resources are valuable, allowing children unstructured downtime can spark their creativity and fuel their imagination.

Mindfully Yours,
Dr. Pamm