Uploaded August 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Are your kids already saying, "I'm bored!" this summer? According to speech and language therapist Emma O'Leary, that's not necessarily a bad thing.
Emma joins Ireland AM to explain why boredom can actually help children become more creative, independent and confident. She shares simple ways parents can encourage independent play without feeling like they need to entertain their children all day long.
From open-ended toys like Connetix, KAPLA and Air Toobz to easy play ideas using everyday household items, Emma reveals practical tips to spark imagination, reduce screen time and make the most of the summer holidays.
She also explains why having too many toys can sometimes make play harder, and how a simple toy rotation can make old favourites feel brand new.
Broadcast on 04/08/2026
Subscribe to Ireland AM for more exclusive videos: bit.ly/4cZifj3
FOLLOW US:
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MORE ABOUT IRELAND AM:
Welcome to the official Ireland AM Channel! We are Ireland's biggest breakfast show live weekdays from 7am-10am & weekends from 9am-12pm on Virgin Media Play & Virgin Media One. Join us as we explore various news topics of interests while guests open up for interviews that cover a multitude of subjects such as politics, food and human interest!
#IrelandAM #Parenting #IndependentPlay #SummerHolidays #KidsActivities #SpeechTherapy #EmmaOLeary #ParentingTips #PlayIdeas #ChildDevelopment #FamilyLife #SummerWithKids
Are your kids already saying, "I'm bored!" this summer? According to speech and language therapist Emma O'Leary, that's not necessarily a bad thing.
Emma joins Ireland AM to explain why boredom can actually help children become more creative, independent and confident. She shares simple ways parents can encourage independent play without feeling like they need to entertain their children all day long.
From open-ended toys like Connetix, KAPLA and Air Toobz to easy play ideas using everyday household items, Emma reveals practical tips to spark imagination, reduce screen time and make the most of the summer holidays.
She also explains why having too many toys can sometimes make play harder, and how a simple toy rotation can make old favourites feel brand new.
Broadcast on 04/08/2026
Subscribe to Ireland AM for more exclusive videos: bit.ly/4cZifj3
FOLLOW US:
facebook.com/IrelandAMVMTV
instagram.com/irelandamvmtv
tiktok.com/@irelandamvmtv
MORE ABOUT IRELAND AM:
Welcome to the official Ireland AM Channel! We are Ireland's biggest breakfast show live weekdays from 7am-10am & weekends from 9am-12pm on Virgin Media Play & Virgin Media One. Join us as we explore various news topics of interests while guests open up for interviews that cover a multitude of subjects such as politics, food and human interest!
#IrelandAM #Parenting #IndependentPlay #SummerHolidays #KidsActivities #SpeechTherapy #EmmaOLeary #ParentingTips #PlayIdeas #ChildDevelopment #FamilyLife #SummerWithKids
