Cleveland Author Pens Book on 'Doing Nothing' for Parents

Joanna Hardis' new book encourages parents to embrace unstructured time with their children.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 2:54pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph shot through condensation or rain-streaked glass, composed of soft pools of warm color and light, depicting a parent and child sharing a quiet moment together.A parent and child embrace the art of "doing nothing" in a world that often demands constant activity.Cleveland Today

Joanna Hardis, a Cleveland-based author, has released a new book titled "Just Do Nothing (For Parents)" that encourages parents to embrace unstructured time and the art of "doing nothing" with their children. The book aims to provide a counterpoint to the highly scheduled, overly structured approach that has become common in modern parenting.

Why it matters

In an era where parents often feel pressure to constantly stimulate and schedule their children's activities, Hardis' book offers a refreshing perspective on the value of letting kids explore and discover on their own. The book taps into a growing movement among parents seeking to find a healthier balance between structured and unstructured time.

The details

Hardis' book explores the benefits of allowing children to engage in unstructured play and free exploration, arguing that this can foster creativity, independence, and a deeper connection between parents and their kids. The author draws on her own experiences as a parent and the latest research on child development to make the case for the importance of "doing nothing."

  • Joanna Hardis' book "Just Do Nothing (For Parents)" was released in April 2026.
  • Hardis is scheduled to participate in a book signing and discussion event at a local Cleveland bookstore on May 15, 2026.

The players

Joanna Hardis

A Cleveland-based author who has written a new book titled "Just Do Nothing (For Parents)" that encourages parents to embrace unstructured time and the art of "doing nothing" with their children.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“In our fast-paced, overscheduled world, it's so important for parents to give their kids the space and freedom to just be. That's where the real magic happens.”

— Joanna Hardis, Author

What’s next

Hardis is scheduled to participate in a book signing and discussion event at a local Cleveland bookstore on May 15, 2026.

The takeaway

Joanna Hardis' book "Just Do Nothing (For Parents)" offers a refreshing perspective on the value of unstructured time for children, encouraging parents to embrace the art of "doing nothing" and fostering a healthier balance between structured and unstructured activities.