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Friday, March 25, 2011

Developing Creativity in Children


“Imagination is more important than knowledge.” –Albert Einstein

Creativity plays an integral role in developing a child’s physical, emotional and cognitive development. Creativity includes a number of components such as imagination, originality, productivity, and problem solving. Creativity is different than the traditional definition of intelligence (i.e., children who score high on intelligence tests are not necessarily highly creative). All children are born with creative potential, and fortunately it can be developed at any time during one’s lifespan.

However, nurturing children’s creativity from a young age will benefit them for years to come, helping build confidence and a better understanding of their surroundings. Developing a childhood interest has been strongly correlated to adult creative achievement. This is essential for developing practical skills that are crucial later in life such as in the workplace. Employers are interested in people who are adaptable, innovative, can solve problems and communicate well with others.

There are many ways to promote creativity in children, but here are a few that I find particularly helpful:
• Foster a Creative Environment: this can range from art projects, playing in the yard, using a wide variety of toys, asking open-ended questions, games, playing with colors, music, exploring nature, reading books and playing puzzles. (Note: Please read my blog posting on July 9, 2010 for a greater understanding of the role of play in childhood development).
• Be a Positive Role Model: don’t tell children what to do, show them what to do.
• Allow Time: it is hard to be creative when you are in a rush. Slow down.
• Build Self-Efficacy in Your Children: let your children do things on their own and give them choices rather than making decisions for them. Let them make mistakes, and respect their ideas. Resist the urge to accomplish tasks for your children. Children who believe in themselves and their abilities tend not to give in to peer pressure and are more confident in making their own decisions. Encouragement and support are critical.
• Let Your Children Ask “Why” Questions: we all can get easily irritated when asked this question numerous times, and frustration and time constraints may lead us to say “I don’t know” or “Don’t ask stupid questions.” This mode of responding may inhibit children from asking questions in the future, resulting in them being less creative and inquisitive.

Please feel free to share any tips that you have on developing creativity in the comment section below. Thanks for reading!

Please visit the following website for further information on developing creativity in children:

http://www.creativityinstitute.com/developingcreativityinchildren.aspx

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