You might think all kids are born with creativity instilled in their minds, but this is not always true. Although some children are more apt to be creative, this is a skill you can encourage in your children. Check out these great tips and ideas for inspiring creativity in your preschooler.
Use Your Imagination
Sometimes it seems like there’s not a lot of room for creativity and imagination in your adult life, but your preschooler is the perfect opportunity for you to stretch those creative muscles. Don’t be afraid to play with your child, using your imagination to build rockets to the moon or ships for sailing around the world. By using your imagination, you’re setting an example for your child. This can inspire your preschooler’s imagination and creativity to grow.
Give Them Choices
Creativity isn’t an instruction manual. You can’t give your child step-by-step instructions and expect the end result to be something creative and imaginative. Instead, give your preschooler choices. Say things like, “Hey, I have some paint and straws here. What should we do with them?” You’ll be amazed at the ideas your preschooler has for such simple tools. By giving options and asking questions, you’re allowing your child to make creative choices of their own.
Have a Messy Space
Just as creativity isn’t an instruction manual, it’s also not a clean job. Instead of constantly worrying about cleaning up after a creative session, give your preschooler a messy space. This area should be a safe zone for having fun and getting a little dirty. If you have a spare room in the basement or a clean corner in the garage, you can even allow your preschooler to do things like paint on the walls. Your child will love having the freedom to think up new things to do, and you’ll love not having a huge mess in the living room or dining room.
Encourage Your Preschooler
There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to being creative. No matter what your child chooses to do, be encouraging and positive. Your preschooler needs to feel safe branching out, even if it’s just by using a different color of crayon for a tree. Anytime your preschooler attempts to try something new, give positive words of affirmation and make them feel proud of their work.
Your child’s mind is filled with creative and imaginative ideas. You can help your preschooler express this creativity by being encouraging and setting an example.
What are some specific ways you inspire creativity in your preschooler?
