By the time a child enters his middle childhood years, he has worked hard to establish predictability and control in his life. It is during this time, however, that parents most often hear their children's whiny complaints of boredom. By definition, boredom suggests a state of weariness brought on by dullness, repetition, or tediousness. Ask a child what he means when he says he is bored, and he will probably tell you he does not have anything interesting or fun to do. The key to solving the boredom dilemma is to help children become resourceful.
Children often have difficulty identifying and articulating their feelings.
Rather than face their real emotional needs, children may sometimes feel safer labeling an unspecified mood as boredom. At the extreme end of the continuum, boredom may be a symptom of depression. If you suspect such, a professional consultation may be in order. Sit down together for a discussion. Make sure you pick a time when you are both relaxed in a place where you will not be interrupted or pressured for time.