The Cambridge dictionary defines creativity as, “The ability to produce or use original and unusual ideas.”[1]
In an ever-changing world creativity has been described as a key skill, associated with success in education, work and interactions with others.
Economists David Gill and Victoria Prowse found those who were more creative as children earned more and had higher levels of education. They suggest that we should find ways to support and encourage creativity in childhood.[2]
Giving your child time to develop practical skills – this means time to move and explore new objects or materials, and time to watch as you do things so they can copy and practice.
Noticing when your child takes a new approach, and commenting so they see that doing something differently or trying a new way is valuable.
Encouraging your child to think for themselves – this means asking questions that don’t have a right or wrong answer and letting your child decide how they want to do things (as long as it’s safe). A good tip for this is to pause and watch before getting involved in your child’s play, so you can think about what they're thinking as well as what they’re doing – you might find the blocks you thought were a tower, are actually a rocket!
Giving your child a variety of experiences and time to think in new ways – this means you might have an idea about something you will do together, but that you can allow the plans to change as you see your child’s response.
Listening to your child’s ideas (which might be expressed in words or through actions) - encourage them to develop their ideas, even when other people suggest something else. Building confidence to try out your ideas and sometimes fail is an important part of creativity which you can encourage right from the start.
Now you know the importance of encouraging creativity why not try some of these activities this weekend! We’ve organised our ideas for babies, toddlers and children – but you know your child so pick something they’ll love. And don’t forget to look at your activities page for ideas linked to the skills your child is mastering now.
Being creative involves drawing on experiences and thinking about them in new ways – so for babies visiting somewhere new can build a foundation of knowledge they’ll draw on in future.
What to do
Even with the best intentions we can find ourselves with a fixed idea of how an activity will go – so this weekend really think about letting your toddler lead (as long as it’s safe).
You could try the toddler led walk idea we shared a few weeks ago – you can find it in this article – or try the tips below for some child-led play.
What to do
As your child’s imagination develops, you’ll see their creativity growing in their play and in the stories they tell, so why not make a story together?
What to do
You know we love a kitchen disco – and everyone can join in! So, put on your favourite child-friendly tunes and dance together.
Encourage creative moves with your comments, “That was a brilliant spin,” “I didn’t think of a kick at that bit – what a good idea.”
References:
[1] Cambridge dictionary (undated). Meaning of creativity in English. CREATIVITY | English meaning - Cambridge Dictionary
[2] Gill, D., & Prowse, V. (2021). The creativity premium. Institue of Labor Economics. 618-cover (warwick.ac.uk)
[3] Prowse, V. (2021, 15 November). The long-lasting benefits of childhood creativity. Psychology Today. The Long-Lasting Benefits of Childhood Creativity | Psychology Today