Delighting in the Simple Moments: Why Kids Need Downtime
It’s a common belief that we need to keep our kids busy with activities and entertainment, but is that really what’s best for them? While it’s wonderful to help children explore their interests, it’s just as important to give them time to slow down. When we pause to consider why kids need downtime, we begin to see how those quieter moments create space for imagination and creativity to grow.
A Gentle Reminder
I’m reminded of this important lesson in my role as a grandparent. We’re fortunate to have our two granddaughters at our house regularly, and I often find myself wanting to make the most of our time together, sometimes trying to fit in too many activities. In those moments, I have to remind myself of the value of free play. Kids need unhurried time for their creativity and imagination to grow.
Just the other day I stepped away to prepare something for dinner and observed the 3-year-old playing by herself. I watched with admiration as she delighted in a few simple toys, her imagination soaring in ways that structured time might not allow. Sometimes, in my overzealous attempt to create a fun and positive experience for my granddaughters, I rob them of these experiences.
The Gift of Slowing Down
When kids are overscheduled and don’t have opportunities for unstructured time, they miss out on the space needed to develop imagination, creativity, and comfort with simply being on their own. They may begin to believe they always need to be busy or entertained. Do we want kids who can be still and content, able to slow down and take things as they come, or kids who feel the need to rush from one activity to the next?
Slowing down to appreciate each moment is so important. A fun and gentle reminder of this can be found in the children’s book titled, Mindful Mr. Sloth. Mr. Sloth loves to do things one at a time, taking a nice, easy pace. In the story, he develops a sweet friendship with an energetic girl and as a result she learns to slow down, take in and enjoy each experience. What a gift!
No matter a child’s age, they need time and space to imagine and just be. It looks different for a teenager than it does for a toddler, but it’s equally important. When our boys had free time I’d often find them climbing trees, building in the garage, playing music, or reading. This kind of downtime helps kids unwind and just be kids. When kids are constantly scheduled and on the go, it can begin to create stress and anxiety. It’s healthy for kids of all ages to enjoy unscheduled time.
I realize how difficult it is to do this in our fast paced world, with so many opportunities available for kids. However, I love the idea of taking just one thing at a time, being fully present for each experience.
Making Space For It
We can model this for our kids (and grandkids) by slowing down ourselves, noticing the small things, and staying present. Teaching mindfulness means helping children appreciate each moment, whatever they’re doing. It’s truly a gift that will support them as they grow.
As we make plans, let’s be intentional about building in time for kids to slow down and enjoy the moment. There will always be activities to fill our days, but we can guide our children to focus on the experience, appreciate what’s in front of them, and even be intentionally “sloth-like” at times. We can also create simple, meaningful moments together, time spent just enjoying one another. These opportunities strengthen connection and build positive relationships.
While it may feel unfamiliar at first, making space for unstructured time, for both your children and yourself, is so valuable. My hope is that, over time, this balance becomes a natural rhythm in your life, leading to greater health, happiness, and more meaningful relationships.
