In an era of non-stop entertainment and digital distractions, a youth care expert is issuing a compelling warning: shielding children from boredom may be contributing to a growing mental health crisis.
The Problem of Constant Stimulation
Professor Calissa Ngozi, a specialist in youth care, argues that the modern environment of relentless stimulation is creating significant problems for young minds. From smartphones and tablets to structured activities and on-demand media, children are rarely given the opportunity to experience moments of quiet or inactivity. This lack of downtime, according to Ngozi, prevents the development of crucial internal resources like creativity, self-regulation, and problem-solving skills.
Ngozi's analysis, shared on January 18, 2026, suggests that when every potential moment of boredom is immediately filled with external entertainment, children do not learn how to manage their own thoughts or generate their own amusement. This can lead to a reliance on external validation and an underdeveloped sense of self, which are factors in anxiety and other mental health challenges.
The Unexpected Benefits of Boredom
Contrary to popular belief, boredom is not an empty state to be avoided. Professor Ngozi positions it as a necessary and fertile ground for healthy psychological development. It is in these unstructured moments that children learn to tap into their imagination, explore their own interests, and develop patience. Boredom can act as a catalyst, pushing a child to invent a game, pick up a book, draw, or simply daydream—all activities that are internally driven.
This process is fundamental for building resilience and the ability to cope with the inevitable dull moments in life. By constantly intervening to eliminate boredom, parents and caregivers may inadvertently be depriving children of the chance to build these essential life skills.
Shifting the Parenting Paradigm
The expert's advice calls for a conscious shift in how adults approach a child's free time. Instead of viewing quiet moments as a problem to be solved with screens or activities, Ngozi encourages embracing them. This might mean setting boundaries on device use, allowing for scheduled periods of "nothing time," and resisting the urge to immediately provide entertainment when a child complains of being bored.
The goal is not neglect, but rather to create a supportive space where a child's own mind can become the primary source of engagement. This approach helps foster independence, curiosity, and a stronger sense of self, which are key components of long-term mental well-being.
As concerns about youth mental health continue to rise, Professor Calissa Ngozi's perspective offers a counterintuitive yet vital solution. Sometimes, the healthiest thing a parent can do is simply nothing, allowing the powerful, developmental force of boredom to work its magic on a growing mind.
