How to Foster Creativity in a Child

Creativity is one of the most fundamental forms of self-expression. While you might think creativity is synonymous with an innate talent, creativity can also be cultivated and nurtured. Being creative helps children grow and develop their unique talents and strengths, but it can also help encourage the development of new skills. According to Sociologist Christine Carter in an article for the Greater Good Science Center, creativity is essential for math, science, and social and emotional intelligence. Fostering creativity in your child may help him become a more flexible thinker and capable problem-solver. Creativity also allows him to more easily express his inner emotional and psychological experiences.

Instructions

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      Provide a nurturing and unstructured environment for imaginative play and creative expression. Carter says time is the most important resource for fostering creativity in a child. Children need time to explore, play, dream and imagine -- without adult interruption. Don't direct your child toward a creative area you would like him to be interested in; allow him to choose his own form of self-expression. Offer a variety of toys that inspire creative play, such as building and artistic materials and costumes, and see what areas your child gravitates toward.

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      Encourage your child to become involved in an extracurricular hobby that stimulates creativity but does not involve academic or performance pressure, recommends Sarah Boone, certified teacher for gifted children, in an article for Duke University's Talent Identification Program. Provide a variety of options, such as dance lessons or an arts and crafts group. Ask your child what activities she prefers.

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      Seek opportunities for participation in multicultural and community experiences, advises PBS's The Whole Child website. Exposure to a wide range of experiences encourages creativity and helps children learn to think outside the box. Read multicultural stories to your children, provide toys that represent other cultures and give your child a chance to interact with people from other ethnicities.

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      Celebrate your child's creativity, Carter suggests. Cover your walls with his paintings, ask him to play his instrument for an impromptu family recital or invite him to read stories he has written.

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      Share your own creative passions with your child. If you love classical music, take your child along to your local orchestra's afternoon performance. If you enjoy dance, take her to the ballet. If you are passionate about art, bring her to the art museum. Provide as many varied opportunities for exposure to the creative arts as possible.

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      Limit television time. According to Mayo Clinic, too much time spent in front of the TV discourages active, creative play and can put your child at risk for behavioral and health problems. Encourage your child to write and perform his own play instead of sitting in front of the tube.

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