'Let them be bored': Parenting expert shares tips to boost your kids' creativity these school holidays

702's Gugs Mhlungu spoke to Debbie McCrystal, a life coach for kids and the founder of Conscious Kids.

Listen to their conversation in the audio clip below.

Are you a parent wondering how to keep your children engaged without relying too heavily on screens during these school holidays?

McCrystal says the key is not to overschedule or overstimulate children, but to embrace boredom as a tool for imagination.

She recommends letting children engage in free play, encouraging them to use basic items like cereal boxes or sticks to build obstacle courses or invent their own games.

"I think what we've got to remember is that these kids are being forced to sit at a desk and behave themselves for close on eight hours every day, which is a lot. I think in the holidays, it's really important that there's obviously structure, children need routine and structure, but that there is a lot more free play."

- Debbie McCrystal, Founder of Conscious Kids

Other tips include involving children in simple tasks like baking, which can support learning through measuring and following steps.

For families who use screens, McCrystal suggests making it intentional, such as using educational apps, and limiting screen time before bed.

She also advises parents to “reframe the guilt” of needing to constantly entertain their children.

"I think it's about reframing the context that children actually thrive when we allow them to be in a space where they're bored, because if they're in a space where they're bored, it ignites the imagination, which is where creativity comes from. I love saying to parents, you know, let's reframe your context, which as opposed to it's my job to keep my kid entertained. Actually, it could be that it's my job to help my child ignite their imagination. I think that's a way nicer way for parents to look at it, because then it removes that guilt of like, I have to do all the things for my kid all the time." 

- Debbie McCrystal, Founder of Conscious Kids

"I think it's about the reframe that says, you know, I'm so excited to see what you are going to do with your day today...as opposed to get out my hair because you're really annoying me. When we excite them into the idea of what can you create? They love that if we give them half a chance."

- Debbie McCrystal, Founder of Conscious Kids

McCrystal provides simple ways to support your child's development during the school holidays:

• Encourage creativity through boredom and unstructured play
• Use simple props like yoghurt containers or cardboard for DIY fun
• Keep screen time balanced and educational
• Involve kids in household tasks like baking to teach real-life skills
• Set healthy routines without imitating the strictness of school schedules

She emphasises that while structure is helpful, holiday time is also a chance to let children reset, recharge, and explore.

Scroll up to listen to the full conversation