173. “I’m Bored!”: What Single Parents Can Do When Tweens and Teens Complain This Summer
Are you hearing “I’m bored!” before your first cup of coffee hits the counter? If you’re a single parent raising tweens or teens, you’re definitely not alone.
In this episode, Tess Connolly, LCSW, sits down with fellow mom Ruby Dichirico to unpack what’s really going on when our kids complain of boredom—and why we shouldn’t rush to fix it. Learn how summer boredom can actually benefit your child’s creativity, emotional regulation, and independence.
Tess shares practical, pressure-free parenting strategies to manage screen time, set up daily structure, and support your own self-care—all while encouraging your tween or teen to stretch into their own curiosity. You'll also get actionable tips for building in tech-free time and hosting a quick family meeting to prepare everyone for summer success.
🎧 Tune in now to discover:
- Why boredom builds problem-solving and creativity
- How downtime boosts emotional resilience in tweens and teens
- Ways to create screen-free zones without power struggles
- A mindset reset for single parents: It’s not your job to entertain all day
📌 Plus: Grab the Tech Reset Agreement in the show notes to help guide your screen time plan this summer!
📧Connect with Therese (Tess) Connolly, LCSW, CCC here👇: [email protected] Website: www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com
🆘 Need 1:1 Support? Book right here to connect with Tess for a 45-minute FREE “Parent Reset” session: Parent Reset Call
⭐Got screen time problems at home? Get the Tech Reset Agreement here 👉Mindful Kids and Families
⭐️Join the Family and get your weekly Mindful Kids and Family Journal here: https://www.mindfulkidsandfamilies.com/join-the-family (Get ready for lessons, podcast leads, offers for parents, and ways to win free parent coaching or masterclasses)
#singleparents #parentingtweens #ScreenTimeStruggles #SummerWithTeens #ScreenTime #behaviorproblems #communication
