What to Do when Your Kids Are Bored

Every parent hears it sooner or later, some hear it every other day. Your kids have a hundred toys in the toy box but will still tell you "I'm bored". They may not be as bored if they had all of the housework you have to get done over the weekend. But what do you do with them when they become bored?

Even though you have a backyard to play in, it doesn't seem like that much fun. Suggest to your child he or she invite a friend over to play with on the trampoline. This plan can backfire on you if you're not careful as all three of your kids invite a friend over and they decide to all come inside at the same time. Have a pitcher of tea of some kool-aid ready for them on the back porch to quench their thirst to keep your home from becoming the jungle gym.

If your backyard doesn't support much in the line of fun play or if you live in an apartment, a trip to the local city park can keep the boredom away. Pack a picnic basket, find yourself a bench in the shade and let them wear themselves out. There will certainly be extra kids for them to play with and you can get some quality time with a good book or conversation with other parents.

If your bank account allows it, why not spend the afternoon at the local bowling center? Call ahead and find out what specials the lanes might offer. Many of them will rent a lane, meaning you can bowl as many games as you like for a set amount of time, usually two hours. The only other charge is for shoe rental and a snack from the concession stand and you've got an entire afternoon to keep the children occupied away from the boredom.

Another economical activity is a trip to the local zoo, depending on what time of year it is. Nothing stirs a child's imagination like seeing the very kinds of animals at the zoo. If the weather won't allow it and you have one in the area, a visit to an aquarium or planetarium will also offer a break from the boredom blues.

If a free outing is something you're looking for, load the kids up and head to the local public library. Have them browse and choose a couple of books to take home while you log onto one of the computers and check your email or read your favorite blog. The nice thing about a library is that "whisper only" rule. You're children will also have something to do when they get home with their books as well, freeing up your time for other needs.

Of course, in nicer weather, there is always the public beach or swimming pool to cool them down on a hot summer day. Or perhaps an afternoon trip to the local fishing hole or stream would fill some time.

Your biggest ally when it comes to your children being bored will be your own imagination. There are plenty of things to do close by home that the kids will enjoy doing. Most of the time, it's just the act of getting out of the house that will rid them of the boredom blues.