Tammy Sassoon
It is not true that some children are able to come up with creative ideas, while others are not. Since to be creative actually means “to come up with original ideas,” why would some people have access to their imaginations, while others are shackled to believe that they do not have an imagination that can produce great ideas? If one is aware that every idea comes from Hashem they also understand that ideas are limitless.
What can we do as parents to help our children see that they do, indeed, have the ability to be creative?
Foster Creativity From an Early Age – If you have not yet nurtured your children’s creativity, have no fear, it’s never too late. Teach your children now about how creativity works. This can have a profound impact on a child’s overall growth and success. Encouraging creativity in children not only enhances their imagination and problem-solving skills, but also instills confidence, adaptability, and a lifelong love for learning. We will soon explore effective strategies to inspire and cultivate creativity in children, enabling them to unlock their full potential and embrace a world of endless possibilities.
Create an Environment of Exploration – To stimulate creativity in children, it is crucial to provide them with an environment that encourages exploration and discovery. Surround them with stimulating materials, such as books, art supplies, building blocks, and puzzles. Allow them to freely explore and experiment with these resources, fostering curiosity and a sense of wonder.
I like to use the words, “I wonder…,” while my children are figuring things out. They often come up with responses I never would have thought of. By providing many opportunities for unstructured play and imaginative activities, children can unleash their creativity and develop critical thinking skills.
Ask Open-Ended Questions – To foster creative thinking, it is important to ask open-ended questions that encourage children to think beyond simple answers. Encourage them to express their thoughts, ideas, and opinions. Instead of simply asking, “What color is this?” you can ask, “Why do you think the sky can have different colors at different times of the day?” By doing so, you prompt children to think critically and to explore possibilities.
Embrace Mistakes As Opportunities To Grow – One of the most significant barriers to creativity is the fear of making mistakes. Children need to understand that mistakes are an integral part of the learning process and should be embraced as opportunities for growth. Create a supportive environment where mistakes are seen as steppingstones to success, encouraging children to take risks and to explore new ideas. Celebrate their efforts, and help them to learn from their mistakes. This approach cultivates resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to think outside the box.
Support Collaboration and Communication – Creativity thrives in collaborative environments where ideas are shared and refined. Encourage children to collaborate with their peers, siblings, or parents on creative projects. Group activities foster communication skills, empathy, and the ability to appreciate different perspectives. Working in teams enhances problem-solving abilities and stimulates innovation.
Incorporate Mindfulness Exercises and Techniques Into Their Lives – When children learn breathing exercises and how to focus on the present moment, it helps them to develop a calm and focused mindset, which is conducive to creative thinking.
Inspiring creativity in children is a gift that will serve them throughout their lives. By creating an environment with the above-mentioned strategies, we can nurture the creative potential in every child. By fostering creativity, we empower children to become innovative thinkers, problem solvers, and lifelong learners, equipping them with the tools they need to navigate an ever-changing world. And of course, when children (and adults, for that matter) are engaged in creative endeavors, they get to enhance the world around them and enjoy healthy feelings of self-worth.