Creativity can’t be taught, but, it doesn’t mean that creativity can’t be encouraged. It’s only fair that every child is pushed to become the most creative version of himself/herself. If you want to encourage creativity to enhance your child’s overall development, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Encourage questions
Kids are curious. Period. As pre-schoolers, kids will ask constant questions, while parents tend to go on autopilot and curb their curiosity as they get older. However, keeping their enthusiasm and their thirst to question everything will force them, and you, to think differently, and view things in a whole new or creative light. This will help you find a unique approach to answering your child’s many questions.
Trust the process
Creativity is not a result-driven path; it’s a more ‘do things as they come’ way of proceeding. That’s why you should trust the process. Don’t focus on the outcome, rather look at the journey your child is taking. After all, it’s the entire endeavour that your child will find more enjoyable.
Add humour to the mix
If you have a funny streak, there’s a good chance you’re adept at looking at things differently. When you add humour to the mix, it allows for your child to think differently, and outside the box of what’s considered right or wrong. Besides, laughter is a sign or appreciation, and it also acts like a tool of encouragement.
Expose your child to diverse views
It’s all about perspective. When you expose your child to opposing views, diverse ideologies, you’re allowing your child to open their minds up and look at thing from multiple perspectives. We don’t know what associations and connections their mind can then formulate, but doing so will allow them a clean slate for them to formulate their own ideas, thoughts, and enhance their creative thinking prowess.
Don’t plan their day down to the last minute
There’s no denying that your child’s day is scheduled in tandem with school activities, and extracurriculars. These help engage your child’s mind and body, and give them the right knowledge to become contributing members of society as they grow. However, while engagement is great, allow your children some time for non-constructive activities where they can be themselves , and use their imaginations to stay engaged.