Listen up, kids: Summertime boredom = infinite possibility

Despite the months of anticipation that precede it, summer isn't all non-stop fun-and-games for kids. Which is why writer and mother Bunmi Laditan has prepared this message for her brood of three:

Dear Children,

There is something that has been heavy on my heart for a while that I would like to discuss with you. Summer is upon us, and it didn't take long for one of you to say those two fateful words: "I'm bored."

My sweet darlings, the Fruit of my Womb, I need to explain something to you: You are bored. You are not sick. You are not a victim of misfortune. You are not undergoing great tragedy, nor are you in the midst of personal crisis.

The discomfort you are experiencing is what previous generations referred to as "a state of rest." Boredom is an opportunity for something called, "free play." Are you following me, dear ones?

You are human children with fully-functional imaginations. I'm going to need you to use them.

Boredom is not a problem to be solved. It is an itch to scratch. Boredom is the dawn of ideas.

Boredom is curiosity knocking gently at your mind, asking to play.

Boredom is infinite possibility.

You are the captain of your own ship, and before you lies an expanse of dark blue ocean and clear skies.

As your parent, I will help guide you, but I will not steer your ship.

Did you hear me? I will not steer your ship. I will be your temporary compass.

Ready? All aboard, mateys!

Cast your eyes over to the Isle of the Craft Closet. Legend says that it is rich with jewel-toned markers and scissors so sharp that they can slice through the toughest construction paper Man has ever known!

And behold, the Jungle of Doom! (Also known as our backyard.) Sages speak of grass green as emeralds, and a sand pit speckled with dollar-store shovels.

Or enter -- if you dare -- the Cavern of Broken Toys! (Your bedroom is upstairs.)

Still bored? Join me, Mistress Pirate of the Maiden Vessel, as I swab the deck and fold laundry.

No? I didn't think so.

Well, then, my advice to you is this: SAIL!

For more info:

• Bunmi Laditan at Wordpress
• thehonesttoddler.com
• "The Honest Toddler: A Child's Guide to Parenting" by Bunmi Laditan (Scribner); Also available in eBook format
• Follow Bunmi Laditan on Twitter and Facebook
• Follow Honest Toddler on Twitter