Children tend to have powerful imaginations and strong innovation skills from a very young age. Creativity helps kids become more confident, develop their social skills, and encourages learning in every subject. In fact, studies have shown that creativity offers a wealth of emotional, intellectual, and even health benefits. As children, most of us were more in touch with our creative sides than we are as adults – school, exams, college, and working in the corporate world aren’t always conducive to creativity. As a parent, there are several things that you can do to support your child with their imagination and creativity.
#1. Design a Creative Space for Them:
Chances are, your child has a few creative hobbies that they enjoy taking part in. For example, if they enjoy drawing and painting, you might want to consider setting up a small art studio at your home for them. If they’re obsessed with movies and want to start making their own, a desk where they can learn how to put clips together with a simple-to-use movie editor, decorated with their favorite movie posters, could inspire them to pursue a career in the entertainment industry as an adult. The space doesn’t have to be elaborate – a playroom or corner with some gadgets and hands-on toys such as LEGO is a great idea.
#2. Allow for Free Time:
It’s just as important to give your child some free time for themselves. After they’ve completed their homework, for example, allowing them an hour or two to please themselves with creative play is a great way to keep their imagination stimulated. If you can, let your child decide what they’d like to do with their free time – this could be anything from going to the beach to collect pebbles to paint, to building models of their favorite planes and cars.
#3. Discuss Creativity:
Talking to your child about their ideas and encouraging them to pursue their creative dreams is a great way to keep their flow going. Ask your kids when they come up with their best ideas – maybe it’s when they’re in the car for a long journey, or when walking to school. Give them a notepad for these moments, so that if they’re unable to act on their creative ideas straight away, they can write it down to save it for later.
#4. Encourage Your Own Creativity:
Since many kids learn by following their parents’ lead, seeing you getting creative will certainly encourage them to stay in touch with their own creative juices. Take the time to discuss your own creative ideas with your child and ask them for their opinion. When your child is coloring, building or creating, join them and offer your help and ideas. Even if you don’t class yourself as a very creative person, getting involved with your child’s ideas can be hugely encouraging to them.
Creative kids tend to develop better both emotionally and intellectually and getting creative can have a huge positive impact on their physical and social skills.
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