Boredom facts for kids
Boredom is a feeling you get when you have nothing interesting to do. It's like your brain is saying, "I'm not excited about anything right now!" When you're bored, it can be hard to focus or find something fun. To shake off boredom, people often look for something to do or something to make them laugh.
The word boredom first appeared in a book called Bleak House by Charles Dickens in 1852. But people were using the phrase to be a bore much earlier, around 1768. It meant someone or something was dull or tiring.
From a psychology point of view, boredom is a tricky feeling. It makes you feel a strong lack of interest in what's happening around you. It can also make it really hard to pay attention to anything.
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What Causes Boredom?
Boredom can happen for many reasons. Sometimes, you might be doing something that is too easy. Other times, a task might be too hard, making you feel stuck. Not having enough to do, or being in a place where nothing new is happening, can also lead to boredom.
When Does Boredom Happen?
You might feel bored when you are waiting for something. Long car rides or sitting in a waiting room can make time feel very slow. Repetitive tasks, like doing the same chore over and over, can also cause boredom. Even having too many choices can sometimes make you feel bored because it's hard to pick one thing.
How Does Boredom Feel?
When you are bored, you might feel restless. You might want to move around or change what you are doing. Some people feel tired or sleepy when bored. Others might feel a bit annoyed or frustrated. It's a mix of not caring about what's happening and wanting something to change.
Boredom and Your Brain
When you are bored, your brain might not be getting enough new information. It's like your brain is looking for something exciting to do, but it can't find it. This can make it hard to concentrate. Your mind might start to wander, or you might find yourself daydreaming a lot.
Dealing with Boredom
There are many ways to deal with boredom. Finding a new hobby is a great idea. You could try drawing, playing an instrument, or learning a new skill. Reading a book or playing a game can also help.
Creative Ways to Beat Boredom
Sometimes, just changing your routine can help. Try a new route to school or explore a different part of your neighborhood. Being creative, like writing a story or building something, can also make boredom disappear. Spending time with friends or family can also make things more interesting.
Images for kids
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A souvenir seller appears bored as she waits for customers
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Boredom by Gaston de La Touche, 1893
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A girl looking bored.
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1916 Rea Irvin illustration depicting a bore putting her audience to sleep
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The Princess Who Never Smiled by Viktor Vasnetsov
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A bored cat lying on a couch.
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A superfluous man (Eugene Onegin) idly polishing his fingernails. Illustration by Elena Samokysh-Sudkovskaya, 1908.
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See also
In Spanish: Aburrimiento para niños
