How often do you hear this? And how often are your kids happy with the suggestions you make? Typical parents say, “I hear it often, and the kids are never excited with my suggestions.”

I know a man who says that he once made the mistake of telling his parents that he was bored. For the rest of his childhood he lived in fear that these words might slip out of his mouth again.

His dad responded, “Great! I’ve got some jobs for you to do. I’m sure they’ll keep you from being bored.”

Many parents suffer from the myth that it is their job to entertain their children. Actually, the opposite is the truth. Give this problem back to the child with, “How sad. I’m glad I don’t let myself get bored. I’m sure you can work that out.”

Kids who believe that they are responsible for their own happiness and entertainment live happier lives and are better learners.