Dr. Ana Aznar
Table of contents
In our Ask Dr Ana series, Dr. Ana Aznar answers real questions from parents with practical, evidence-based advice. Dr. Ana Aznar is the founder of REC Parenting and a psychologist who specialises in parenting, family relationships, and children's socioemotional development.
Parent's Question
"I'm running out of ideas to keep my kids busy, you know? I want them to have fun, but I also don't want them just vegging out all day. What do other parents do to keep things both entertaining and good for them?"
Dr Ana's Answer
Many parents feel pressure to keep their children constantly entertained. But it is important to remember that we are parents, not entertainers.
Children do not need every moment of their day planned or filled with activities. In fact, some of the most important learning happens when they have to figure out how to spend their time on their own.
When children entertain themselves, they use their imagination, creativity, and problem-solving skills. They learn how to come up with ideas, create games, and explore their interests without relying on someone else to organise everything for them.
There is also value in boredom.
Boredom is often seen as something negative, but it can help children develop resilience. When children experience boredom, they learn how to cope with uncomfortable feelings and find ways to manage them independently. These are valuable life skills that will serve them well as they grow.
It is also worth considering the world we live in today. Many of us feel pressure to be productive all the time. If we are not doing something useful, we can feel as though we are wasting time.
Sometimes we apply the same expectations to our children.
We can start to believe they should always be learning, practising, achieving, or participating in activities. But children need downtime too. Just like adults, they need opportunities to rest, recharge, and simply enjoy themselves.
A quiet afternoon reading, drawing, building with toys, daydreaming, or even spending some time on the sofa is not necessarily wasted time.
The goal is not to eliminate screen time, boredom, or rest. The goal is balance.
Ideally, children have opportunities for:
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Physical activity and outdoor play
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Creative activities such as drawing, building, or crafting
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Social time with friends and family
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Independent play
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Quiet downtime and rest
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Occasional boredom that encourages them to create their own fun
When parents stop feeling responsible for providing constant entertainment, family life often becomes less stressful for everyone.
Children gain confidence in their ability to occupy themselves, and parents gain permission to step back a little.
Finding the Right Balance Between Activities and Downtime
Many parents worry that if they are not actively entertaining their children, they are somehow falling short.
The reality is that children benefit from a mixture of structure and freedom.
Scheduled activities can help children develop skills and interests, but unstructured time gives them space to think, imagine, create, and learn about themselves.
The healthiest approach is usually somewhere in the middle.
Dr Ana Aznar's Parenting Expertise
Dr. Ana Aznar has a BA in Psychology from The Open University, UK, an MSc in Applied Child Psychology from Kingston University, UK, and a PhD in Developmental Psychology from Kingston University, UK. She conducts research on parenting, family relationships, and children's socioemotional development.
Keeping Kids Busy FAQs
Is it okay for children to be bored?
Yes. Boredom can encourage creativity, problem-solving, and emotional resilience. It gives children the opportunity to create their own entertainment and learn how to manage uncomfortable feelings.
Do children need constant activities?
No. While activities can be beneficial, children also need unstructured time to rest, play independently, and use their imagination.
How much downtime should children have?
There is no perfect amount. Most children benefit from a balance of organised activities, free play, social interaction, and time to simply relax.
Is it bad for children to spend time doing nothing?
Not at all. Quiet time can help children recharge, process their experiences, and develop independence.
What should I do if my child says they're bored?
Resist the urge to solve the problem immediately. Encourage them to think of ideas themselves and give them time to work through the feeling before stepping in.
Do you have any parenting questions for our parenting coach and expert, Dr. Ana Aznar? Ask for free today!
