Why Kids in the ’80s Never Knew What Boredom Was

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Let’s be honest: the phrases that make my eyes roll the most are not just “That’s not fair!” or “In a minute.” The one that really gets under my skin is, “Mom, I’m bored.” Somehow, I’ve raised my kids to believe that their boredom is my responsibility. Perhaps it’s thanks to the overactive parenting style I adopted during their early years (which I’ve thankfully abandoned). Or maybe it’s the packed schedules of homework, sports, and after-school activities that leave them feeling overwhelmed when it comes to finding their own entertainment.

They stand there, waiting for me to rescue them from their so-called agony. I try to help: Did you walk the dog? (Yes.) How about practicing piano? (Yes.) Reading a book? (Ugh.) An art project? (Groan.) Cooking dinner? (No way!) Shooting hoops? (Too tired.) Playing with your sibling? (Not happening!) Calling a friend? (So lame!) Cleaning your room? (Moooommm!)

At this point, I throw my hands up in defeat.

Back in my day, I can’t recall ever uttering, “I’m bored” to my mother. If I did, her reply was always something like, “I’m sure you can find something to do.” Growing up in the ’80s meant that entertaining children was simply not part of the parenting handbook. Our parents didn’t feel the need to entertain us; they were busy with their own lives—whether talking on the phone, following the news, or working out to Jane Fonda’s exercise tapes. We understood that we needed to find ways to entertain ourselves, and boy, did we rise to the challenge!

As a tween, the time between school and dinner typically began with a few Keebler Magic Middle cookies and a Tropical Punch Capri Sun while I watched reruns of Gilligan’s Island. After a quick homework session, I’d crank up MTV, air-guitaring to Joan Jett’s “I Love Rock ‘N Roll” and dreaming about Rick Springfield. I’d pour my heart into fan letters, decorating them with my favorite stickers.

My days were filled with arranging my collection of scratch-and-sniff stickers, making friendship pins from Girl Scouts, or using the wall phone to call my friends. If Kim didn’t answer, I’d try Juliette or Ellen-Marie. We usually gathered in front of Jimmy’s house, the boy every girl had a crush on. We’d bike around, sharing music and planning mixtapes for parties, all while keeping an eye on the time with my Swatch watch.

Notice that in all these memories, my parents are absent. We found our own fun, a hallmark of ’80s childhood.

So, the next time my kids declare their boredom, I won’t rush to provide suggestions. Instead, I’ll glance up from my phone, smile, and say, “I’m sure you can find something to do.” Maybe I’ll even leave out my vintage Rubik’s Cube for them to discover.

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In summary, kids from the ’80s thrived on their ability to entertain themselves without relying on their parents. While today’s children may struggle with boredom, it’s a vital skill to develop independence and creativity.