How to foster creativity in your child?

Much of their learning involves replicating and duplicating exactly what is taught. But in the process many children lose their creative streak. It is essential to nurture it and encourage children to be creative. Here are a few handy tips for the same:

First and foremost is to give the child the freedom to think, feel and be themselves. This can only be when your child feels secure in their environment, when he or she feels it is OK to be themselves. Give them the time, space and materials to create to their heart’s content. Children tend to be more creative when parents give them freedom.

Be an Example of a Creative Person in Action: 

You are your children’s primary role model. Let them see what it looks like to be creative. Some of the attributes are easy-going, non-authoritarian, open to new adventures and activities, risk taking, following your own interests and passions.

Respecting that each child has the right to be himself and believing in his uniqueness builds your child’s confidence in himself. He then feels capable of taking risks and being original. Respect their imagination and fantasies.

Too many rules are stifling to creativity. But, if you base your actions on what you value, be an example of those values, and let your children decide their behaviour according to those values; only then creativity will flourish.

Encourage your children to do their best and accomplish wonderful things. Rote learning and high grades are not as important as imagination and integrity in developing creativity. Creativity is developed in their achieving what is important to them.