Do Children Really Misbehave When They Got Nothing To Do?

“Play is our brain’s favorite way of learning.” -Diane Ackerman

Do children really misbehave when they got nothing to do? The simple answer is: yes, they do. How? This post seeks to find out. But before we go any further, understand that children are mysterious, curious creatures. The best way to understand this is by remembering your own childhood. Let’s take a walk down the memory lane.

“Those who play rarely become brittle in the face of stress or lose the healing capacity for humor.” -Stuart Brown, MD

Do you remember the school days? It is hard for folks to remember the days before school, but if you think hard, maybe you will remember the time your dad swung you around in his arms, and how your mom carried you everywhere she went. Back to the school days. Do you remember the smell of the grass, the outdoor playground equipment, the friends and the never-ending fun.

“If you want to be creative, stay in part a child, with the creativity and invention that characterizes children before they are deformed by adult society.” -Jean Piaget

Children, today, hardly have time to stay outdoors and enjoy nature, thanks to the increasing technological devices. But there’s another thing that is happening: when children run out of computer games they turn to mischief.

Remember how much you played outside in the backyard, near the school playground equipment, and on the streets? Are your kids doing the same? I highly doubt it.

Research suggests that there is a strong relationship between misbehavior and sedentary life pattern. Think about it, if children have nothing better to do, what will they turn to? Of course they will become the Max, the king of all wild things (if you know what I mean).

Children need something that engages them every day and nothing could get this done better than good old fashioned playground equipment and a community playground. Now you must be wondering, “But what if children get bored of the playground and the playground equipment?” That is a valid question. No matter what happens children can have enough of nature. So if they are done with their community park and playground equipment, get them out, into the wilderness.