4 ways to foster creativity in your child
People tend to think creativity is an innate gift that some are born with and others aren’t. In reality, creativity is like any other skill that can be fostered and developed over time.
If you’re looking for ways to enhance your child’s creative abilities, here are four simple ways to encourage them to open their minds and think outside the box.
1. Build a creative atmosphere
Building an environment in your home where creativity and innovation are always celebrated. You are your child’s biggest role model, and if they see you pursuing your interests and dabbling in multiple activities, they will follow suit.
Approach creativity as a journey you and your child can embark on together. Cover your walls with forms of art from all around the world. Have an activity night each week where you and your young one explore a new interest together.
Talk to your kid about your interests growing up, favourite artistes you liked, the shows you watched, the concerts you attended.
Share with them your passion for cooking, books, photography, wildlife, gardening, painting, fashion, sciences, technology, or anything under the sun. Expose your kid to various fields and foster a creative atmosphere.
2. Pick up on their interests
Each child is unique, so don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, observe them and pick up on their interests.
Does your child have a habit of randomly doodling on walls and surfaces? Get them a couple of sketchbooks and a set of crayons, and let them doodle away!
If your kid loves sing-alongs and music, take them to music shows and concerts, introduce them to musical instruments, and encourage impromptu family dance parties in your living room.
If they’re always dressing up in your clothes and love pretend play, introduce them to theatre and live performances and let them channel their inner drama queen.
Toys can also enhance creativity. If your child spends hours hunched over Legos or building blocks, introduce them to the basics of mechanics and architecture. Let them help you put together an IKEA table or watch you fix a lightbulb.
Give them crafting supplies – cardboard, glue, straws, and empty toilet paper rolls – and watch them build away.
If you look closely enough, your child is constantly dropping hints about what sparks their interest. Give them adequate resources to explore their passions and build from there. Read More…
