Beating the "I'm B-O-R-E-D" Blues

Every parent has heard the dreaded words "I'm B-O-R-E-D" whined in the most nasaly of voices. Repeat the following words as often as necessary. . .

"I am NOT your entertainment center!"

When the "I'm B-O-R-E-D" whining gets very strong, or the "I can't find anything to do!" pops in the conversation, dig out the ultimate threat...

"If you can't find something constructive to do, I will find something for you."

If you are challenged then pile on the work. Have the child cleaning the bedroom, bathroom, or some very disorganized drawer or closet, weeding the garden, or any other mundan chore that needs to be done. The "I'm Boreds" and child's challenge to involve you in a thirty minute discussion on "there's nothing to do" will quilckly leave and will not return for at least a day or two (longer if the chose was really to the child's dislike!). If they whine about the job, remind them that they are no longer bored and the next time they need to think twice before declaring "I'm bored".