Well, summer has officially arrived—and if you listen closely, you can already hear the chorus of “I’m boooored” echoing through households everywhere. It’s practically the soundtrack of June, right up there with the ice cream truck jingle.

But here’s an idea that might make us all feel a little better: boredom isn’t bad. In fact, it can be a gift.

When kids get bored, their brains get to do something magical: they start creating. Without a packed schedule or constant entertainment, they’re forced to get curious, solve problems, invent games, or even (gasp) help out around the house. Some of the best ideas are born in moments of “nothing to do.”

That said, I’m a realist. A little nudge in the right direction never hurts. So here are a few low-cost, high-impact ideas to help turn summer yawns into something meaningful:

1. Host a Lemonade Stand with a Purpose

Instead of just pocketing the profits, encourage your kids to donate the proceeds to a cause they care about—like a local animal shelter, children’s hospital, or even a neighbor in need. It gives them purpose and a sense of power to make a difference.

2. Create a “Kindness Scavenger Hunt”

Make a list of good deeds they can check off—things like writing a thank-you note to a teacher, baking cookies for the fire station, or picking up trash at the park. They’ll stay busy, feel accomplished, and you might even sneak in a little peace and quiet.

3. Make a Movie (or a Newscast!)

Hand over your phone or an old camera and let them write, direct, and film their own mini-movie, music video, or summer newscast. It’s hours of creative play disguised as screen time.

4. Run a Book Exchange

Set up a small bookshelf outside your home and encourage neighbors to take or leave a book. Kids can decorate it, organize it, and keep track of what gets swapped. It’s like a little library with a lot of community charm.

5. Become a Neighborhood Helper

Create flyers offering simple services like pet walking, plant watering, or bringing in the mail while neighbors travel. It’s a gentle introduction to responsibility—and may come with a few ice cream money tips along the way.

In a world where kids (and adults!) are constantly being fed what to do and when to do it, boredom is a chance to think for ourselves, to connect with our communities, and to rediscover simple joys.

So the next time you hear, “I’m bored,” just smile and say, “Perfect. What are you going to do about it?”

Here’s to a summer full of sunshine, surprises, and just the right amount of nothing.

XX,

MG