Embracing boredom – keeping kids entertained without social media

Embracing boredom – keeping kids entertained without social media

With the federal government’s social media ban for under-16s now in effect, parents and caregivers may be looking for ways to keep their kids engaged during the long Christmas break, without turning to screens. An RMIT expert shares why boredom can be a positive driver for creativity and wellbeing.

Dr Elise Waghorn, Lecturer in Early Childhood

"With the long Christmas holiday break about to start, many families are wondering how to keep their children engaged – particularly in light of the social media ban. 

"While it may feel tempting to replace social media with other forms of screen time, Australian policy and international evidence consistently highlight the importance of play, autonomy and strong relationships for children’s wellbeing.

"Families may notice an increase in boredom as children adjust to life without social media. However, research shows that reducing digital distraction improves children’s capacity for creativity, focus and wellbeing. Boredom is not something to avoid; it is a catalyst for imagination. 

"The policy shift away from social media offers parents and guardians an opportunity to reintroduce children to unstructured and adventurous play. Calculated risk-taking – such as bike riding, climbing, building forts or experimenting with tools – strengthens children’s physical competence, independence and emotional regulation. 

"Ultimately, children thrive when they feel trusted, supported and connected. The Christmas holiday break presents the perfect opportunity to rebuild those foundations without the reliance on social media."

Dr Elise Waghorn has expertise in early childhood development. Her research explores children’s everyday experiences in Australia and their connection to policy and educational contexts internationally.

***

General media enquiries: RMIT External Affairs and Media, 0439 704 077 or news@rmit.edu.au

11 December 2025

Share

Return to RMIT News
11 December 2025

Share

Engage

Related News

Australian money

Can AI help do your tax return?

As Australians prepare their tax returns for the 2025–26 financial year, many are navigating a much more complicated income environment shaped by hybrid work, side hustles, digital platforms and AI-driven work opportunities. An RMIT expert explains how AI can influence tax time.

Enter a new prompt in google Gemini

Is the Google search dead?

It is becoming more commonplace to use an AI chatbot for general searches and information gathering, changing the way we interact with search tools on the internet. An RMIT expert unpacks this shift, and the evolving partnership between web searches and AI.

Film production

Oscars to prohibit AI-generated content, but most mainstream films already use it

The Academy Awards, or commonly known as the Oscars, have recently changed the eligibility criteria to prohibit AI-generated screenplays and performances from 2027 onwards. An RMIT expert explains how AI tools have already been deeply embedded in the industry for years.

Food_waste_1220px_L.jpg

Melbourne’s food identity under scrutiny as inequality grows

Melbourne is widely recognised as a global food destination, yet rising food insecurity is prompting questions about who the city’s food system serves. An RMIT expert explains why design must move beyond efficiency and centre the communities most affected by these challenges.

Show more
aboriginal flag float-starttorres strait flag float-start

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

More information