In an Internet age, we've almost forgotten the power of stillness. Children have been influenced by growing up in this world of constant activity to the point that they're not "bored" often enough, says one expert.
Julie Robinson, education and training director for the UK-based Independent Association of Prep Schools, reminded parents that kids need time for self-reflection as well in her recent essay "It's Time to Be Bored."
Robinson contends that too many extra-curricular activities can actually hamper development in children, Yahoo! Shine reported via The Guardian.
"It's all too easy for parents to be sucked into a competitive busy-ness, ensuring that children are constantly occupied and stimulated," Robinson wrote in the association's magazine, Attain. "We should not fear boredom however. Quiet, reflective time is just as important as purposeful activity...youngsters are not well served by being forced into an exhausting stream of clubs and extracurricular activities."
The former headmistress acknowledged that activities are vital to help children maintain a competitive edge, but she emphasizes balance and the importance of "providing [children] with the space to grow and discover for themselves."
Robinson also cautioned parents to watch their kids' screen time, warning that the Internet gives "the best and the worst of life" and that they should beware "the hypnotic lure of the screen."
Calling today's schedules a "regime of unrealistic multitasking, running oneself ragged with an exhausting programme of endless after-school activities," Robinson said children need to be given time to learn how relationships work and to study human expression.
Parents don't have to preplan every minute for their kids, Robinson said, cautioning them to stay away from "overbearing parenting" that can discourage growth.
"Children need space and time so that they can develop independence and take risks," she said.
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