Fostering Creativity

     There are literally endless possibilities when you are attempting to foster your child's creativity. Some only see messy paint projects (and the hours of cleaning up that would follow) as creative. Or perhaps you've never been accused of being "crafty." Or perhaps you're just busy and can't see yourself finding time to drag out art supplies, undertake a massive art project, and scrub the dining room floor afterwards. In these instances, I urge you to talk to your child. And listen to them. Genious, right?
     Of course everyone talks to their child. And everyone listens to their three years old's ten minute soliloquy about the bug he just squished. Or you at least nod your head and say, "uh huuuh," a few times. I'm referring to the kind of talking that puts your child in a position to think. Use your imagination to help them develop their own. While it is true children are very imaginitive already, it is important to train them to think about their surroundings in every way possible. Train them to challenge ideas. An effective way to do this is simply to ask questions.

     For example, allow your child to help you with the dishes. Make sure you have them wash their hands first--stray boogers and bug legs are unwelcome in this activity. Catergorizing silverware is a great precursor for math. The same goes for laundry. Have them sort by color or size or item (pants, shirts, socks, etc). This is a game for them. In this example, I would begin by pointing out where each item should go. Then they're free to go. Of course, some knives will be in the spoon slot and some forks will be dropped, but she's learning. They will make mistakes. They will roll all over your laundry that was just neatly folded. (one of Raulee's favorites) Evaluate whether or not you can stand to have your clothes a little wrinkly when they're placed in the drawer.

      Now you're busy with the bigger dishes and she's feeling important since you assigned her a task. The only thing left to do is talk. One question I may begin with is: "Is silverware really silver?" The point is to get her thinking. "What would happen if we didn't have any silverware?" "Why are some spoons bigger than others?" "Could we use silverware that was made out of noodles?" "Why not?" In the picture above, Raulee is holding a melon spoon. This could lead to a discussion about which fruits we use utensils to eat. You can lead the discussion or let them lead. See where it takes you. Sometimes we will become so engrossed in a conversation that it leads us to the computer to look up pictures or learn more about whatever we're talking about. Don't make it a lecture. Make it fun. If they see that you are interested in learning they will also value learning.

     I must also point out that you will not feel like doing this every second of every day. Silence is, at times, really golden. One or two good ten minute conversations a day will have you teaching your child things you forgot you knew and, more importantly, open your child's eyes to the possibilities surrounding them.

      Something to think about: What is a household chore that could (safely) involve your children?