How to Inspire Creativity in Your Children
Do not fall into the trap of believing some children are just more creative than others. Creativity can be nurtured (or hindered) by parents and teachers. And, your children will need to be creative to be successful in the future. As Carolina A. Miranda explains, “Today’s toddler faces a universe of rapidly evolving technology, an ever-shifting global economy, and far-reaching health and environmental challenges — scenarios that will require plenty of creative thinking.” Let’s look at how you can inspire creativity in your children.
Turn Off the Screens
Technology is a beautiful thing – until it isn’t. While there are many benefits of technology, your children will benefit for limiting screen time. Designated screen time limits in your home. These rules will present opportunities for your children to be creative with the things around him/her. Free play is essential for creativity, and allowing limitless screen time eliminates these opportunities for free play.
All the most creative artists will tell you nature inspires them. This is also true for children. Children can explore their backyards to learn about nature. A walk in the woods can become a magical adventure. As children freely explore the world around them, they will be inspired.
Encourage your children to use their imaginations regularly. Teach them to play pretend and took for magic amongst the ordinary. Give them opportunities to solve problems in imaginative ways. Set up a costume trunk and let them get into character. Show them that using your imagination is fun by allowing them to see you use your imagination. Tell them imaginative stories and pretend alongside them.
Make Some Messes
Creativity is messy. Just accept it. If you do not have a designated space for creative ventures in your home, then just have times when you make some messes. Science experiments, cooking, and art are just some of the creative activities you can do to inspire your children – and they are all sure to be messy!
Open Up the Books
Books open up the world of imagination. Read aloud with your children every day. Choose books that are full of fun characters and exciting adventures. Not only do books encourage your child to use imagination to visualize characters, setting, and events, but they also teach children ways to solve problems.
Embrace the Arts
Show your children that there are other forms of entertainment outside their screens. Take your children to see plays and dance performances. Then, encourage your child to participate by taking dance, art, or theater class.
Allow Room for Mistakes
It is hard to be creative when you are striving for perfection. Therefore, give your children room to make mistakes. Do not expect their artwork or performances to be perfect. Instead, teach them to find the beauty in their mistakes.
Inspire creativity in your children. Begin by recognizing that each child is unique and gifted with different talents. However, no matter how your child is naturally gifted, you can still nurture creativity in this area of his/her life.