Creativity is more of a skill than an innate talent, so it is worth developing it from an early age. In adult life it will be useful in almost every sphere of life! What is important, it is not limited only to artistic and musical expression. It also supports scientific, mathematical, linguistic, kinesthetic, spatial, natural, and even social and emotional intelligence. A creative person is also better able to cope with problems. How do you encourage this in your youngest?
If you want to develop creative thinking in your child, encourage him to think in different ways. Whenever you talk to your child, ask questions such as: Why is the sky blue? Why does seawater have ripples, but not in a lake or pond? How does gravity work? And so on. By doing so, you will spark his curiosity, stimulate his imagination and get him to solve problems
Children have a lot of ideas that are manifestations of their creativity. Remember not to reject or ridicule them. By doing so, you will let your child know that being creative is not worth it! Try to focus on the advantages. Think together about how to put the idea into action
Toddlers who are afraid to make mistakes usually don’t want to think creatively. So create a safe environment where they can confidently share their ideas. Making mistakes is an inevitable part of learning.
Children can take nicknames very seriously. Labeling anyone as “uncreative” or “better at math and science” can discourage them from learning other subjects or taking up creative hobbies, although in adult nomenclature it doesn’t mean anything bad. Encourage your child to expand his or her knowledge in different areas. Avoid grading!
When you encourage your child to be independent, he starts using his imagination and available resources. By doing so, you encourage him to think creatively. You build up his self-confidence and strengthen his belief that he can handle any situation
From the age of two, toddlers strive for more independence. Encourage them to make simple choices. Of course, you should adjust the level of independence according to your toddler’s age, ability and the specific activity. Remember, however, not to over-control your child. Offer to invent your own games and prepare a plan for the day.
Whether it’s an emotional problem encountered in everyday life or a math problem, you should make your child aware that there are at least several ways to solve it. Encourage him to look at the issue from different perspectives. In this way, you will stimulate his imagination.
Learning about space encourages creative thinking while giving your child an edge in science class. Ask your toddler what he thinks aliens look like and ask him to draw them. You can also encourage him to make up a story about an astronaut who landed on the moon
If your child is older, offer to make a model of the Solar System together from Styrofoam balls. Planetariums are another interesting way to introduce children to the cosmos
When the holidays come, how do you let your kids choose gifts for their loved ones? Do they look for a trinket at the store, or do you buy gifts from the whole family yourself? This year you can take it a step further
Instead of buying ready-made gifts, ask your child to prepare handmade gifts. Small trinkets such as a bracelet, drawing, or Christmas ornament are great ideas for a touching gift that a child of any age can make. Help him paint wooden ornaments, braid bracelets, or create baubles out of paper.
Construction toys, such as building blocks, encourage children to solve problems and develop their imagination. Remember to give your toddler enough time to play freely. It’s a good idea to encourage your child to build a car or dollhouse out of blocks. There is nothing better than learning in a fun atmosphere
