In this age of video games, Internet , and TV, do you ever wonder how to encourage your child to be more creative? All children are creative and creativity can be expressed in many ways. Your child doesn’t need to show signs of being the next Picasso, Beethoven, or Frank Lloyd Wright in order to be creative. How they build with blocks, solve jigsaw puzzles, or even how they dress their dolls are unique ways they express themselves. Here are 5 ways to nurture your child’s creativity:
Observe and respect your child’s interests.
Do they enjoy playing with trains, helping you in the kitchen, or singing with the radio? Whatever interests them, give them the opportunity to explore and participate in those activities often. Spend time doing those activities with them, as well as allowing them time to do the activity on their own, without your guidance or input. Participating with them demonstrates your support and allowing them to do it on their own gives them time to explore their interests and build self-confidence.
Expose your child to different activities.
Another way to nurture your child’s creativity is to try new things together. It’s a fun way to spend time with them, learn something new, and create opportunities for your child to discover what they love and what they may excel in.
Give them freedom and let go of results.
Give your child the freedom to express themselves without any expectations or need to be perfect. This gives them permission to be creative without pressure to perform. Creativity can blossom when they feel relaxed and safe, and are encouraged to be themselves.
Share your interests with your child.
Children learn by example. When they see you being enthusiastic and enjoying yourself, it demonstrates the importance of making time for the things they love. Plus, sharing is an enjoyable way to teach a new skill and be creative together. Whether you love playing baseball or planting flowers, sharing your interests encourages your child to learn about you and the world.
Invite your child to be the teacher.
In addition to acknowledging their hard work and creative projects, engage them in conversation about their activities. Invite them to teach you something new. Ask them questions like, “How did you come up with the idea to draw wolves in a boat?” or “Tell me about your new Lego structure,” or “That dance looks fun. Will you show me how to do it?” Inviting you child to teach builds their confidence by letting them be the expert and also gives them opportunities to strengthen their gifts.
Celebrate
Creativity exists within all of us. Enjoy and celebrate all the ways your child demonstrates their curiosity and creativity. This helps build a close and caring relationship with your children while teaching them to be strong and independent thinkers.
About the Author
Margalit Ward, an ICF-Certified Life and Executive Coach, co-founded Get Up Girl Coaching, which specializes in women’s empowerment programs. She had four years of formal training in Counseling Psychology from the University of Santa Monica. Margalit is a contributor to HuffingtonPost.com, FindBliss.com, and a coach for life by me.
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