bordom

As I write this post, my grandson (having perused this list) is playing on the floor in front of me building habitats for his rubber animals out of building blocks and various containers of water. His pterodactyl is taped to the ceiling fan and is flying over the entire project. When he is done setting it all up, the Playmobile people (and, no doubt any real people that happen to be here) will tour this miniature zoo to admire his creations.

When my grandson comes to stay for the week, he almost never turns on the TV, and video games are non-existent. Growing up, my boys always had access to the “I’m Bored List”. I made lots of lists because in the middle of raising a passel of kids, the brain gets taxed. My lists helped me come up with creative ideas when my brain was feeling less than inspired. Often, you would find a list like this hanging on the wall for the kids to consult whenever they got bored.

PLEASE PEOPLE — unplug the children!

Read how to UNPLUG on Road Trips here.

Admittedly, we have amassed a great collection of toys over the years, so you might not have access to everything listed here. Customize this list with the toy collections you have in your home. We have always kept sets separate in a bunch of clear plastic boxes. It makes them far more accessible than if they are all mixed up or buried in the bottom of a toy box.

A great place to start collections of your own is at local thrift shops or rummage sales.

So here you have my “I’M BORED LIST” geared more toward younger children. This list is largely stuff kids can do by themselves, but use adult supervision when needed. Can you add more ideas?

Also see my list for older children here.

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