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In this solo episode of Your Child Is Normal, pediatrician and mom of three Dr. Jessica Hochman explores a summer parenting dilemma almost all families face: what to do when kids say, “I’m bored.”

Rather than seeing boredom as a problem to fix, in episode makes the case that it’s actually a gift. Drawing on developmental psychology and research, she explains how boredom helps children develop creativity, autonomy, and emotional regulation. You’ll hear stories about J.K. Rowling, Albert Einstein, and Thomas Edison—all of whom had major breakthroughs during moments of stillness—and learn why screens might be getting in the way of your child’s imagination.

Dr Jessica Hochman  shares practical tips on how to reset your child’s attention, protect downtime, and welcome boredom into your family’s summer.

If you're feeling pressure to overschedule your child, or if you're hearing a lot of “I'm bored!” this summer, this episode will help you reframe those moments as opportunities for growth.

Credited Studies

1. Eastwood et al – The unengaged mind: Defining boredom in terms of attention. Journal: Perspectives on Psychological Science, 2012  https://doi.org/10.1177/1745691612456044
2. Mann & Cadman –  Does being bored make us more creative?  Creativity Research Journal, 2014.  https://doi.org/10.1080/10400419.2014.901073
3. Hunter, Dyer & Eastwood – Feeling Bored, Feeling Blue: Depression, boredom, and the default mode network. Emotion, 2016 https://doi.org/10.1037/emo0000146
4. Dr. Teresa Belton – Interviews with Creative Professionals
   • "Boredom is good for children – and adults", BBC News, 2013
   • Book title: Happier People Healthier Planet

Your Child is Normal is the trusted podcast for parents, pediatricians, and child health experts who want smart, nuanced conversations about raising healthy, resilient kids. Hosted by Dr. Jessica Hochman — a board-certified practicing pediatrician — the show combines evidence-based medicine, expert interviews, and real-world parenting advice to help listeners navigate everything from sleep struggles to mental health, nutrition, screen time, and more.

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YouTube channel: Ask Dr Jessica

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The information presented in Ask Dr Jessica is for general educational purposes only. She does not diagno...