How to Inspire Children's Creativity

All kids have the potential to be creative, but they need an environment that nurtures that creativity so they don't lose the spark. Your actions as a parent serve as a guide for your child. When given opportunities to express his creativity, he learns to think about things in a new way. He becomes a creative problem solver and learns to take risks with his ideas. Encouraging your child to express himself helps his creativity blossom.

Things You'll Need

  • Open-ended toys
  • Art supplies

Instructions

    • 1

      Surround your child with materials and toys that encourage creativity. Many toys are meant to be played with in one way. Other toys, such as blocks and dress-up clothes, encourage kids to think of different ways to use them. Supply your child with art materials, such as paint, clay and paper, to encourage artistic creativity.

    • 2

      Support your child when she comes up with inventive ideas. Instead of laughing at her for a far-fetched idea, tell her you admire her creativity. If you laugh at or shoot down her ideas, she may eventually stop sharing or thinking of those ideas.

    • 3

      Visit spots that encourage creativity, such as an art museum, art studio or children's museum. Allow your child to fully explore those places to inspire his creativity.

    • 4

      Display the pieces that your child creates to show that you are proud of her work. Create an art gallery in your home that shows off her masterpieces. Put the sculpture she created out of recycled materials on the table as a centerpiece.

    • 5

      Give your child time to think of creative solutions for problems. Instead of telling him to hurry up and finish a project, choose a time when you aren't rushed so he can slow down as he creates.

    • 6

      Encourage her curiosity. When she asks questions, discuss them with her instead of blowing her off. Ask her questions that make her think. Curiosity encourages your child to think of things in a new way and explore the idea further.

    • 7

      Point out examples of creativity when you see it. Stop and look at a sculpture on a walk. Point out graffiti -- as long as it's child-friendly -- as you drive through town. Talk about creative ideas you see other kids doing so your child realizes he can be creative too.

    • 8

      Explore your own creativity. It's easy to ignore creative urges as an adult with responsibilities, but exploring art and creative thinking encourages your child to do the same.

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