Throughout the past few years, we’ve heard time and again about the importance of 21st-century skills, especially creativity, and how they can influence a child’s future.

What is Creativity?

Creativity involves using the imagination to think of new ideas, being inventive and innovative, and thinking of alternatives or possibilities when solving problems. More and more, research is supporting the value of this trait, which many employers say is missing in today’s young workers.

Why is Creativity So Important in the Workforce?

Creative thinkers are able to anticipate and manage practical and abstract issues; they remain flexible in an increasingly complex world; and they’re problem solvers who can generate innovative ideas. Creativity is needed for a variety of careers, including for doctors, scientists, business leaders, writers, performers, teachers and parents.

I’ve always valued creativity and believe that helping to develop this important skill in young children is one of the best ways to prepare them for success later in life.

At-Home Activities and Tips

Children naturally use creativity as they play and entertain themselves and others, which is why it’s essential to allow time for them to explore and play freely, tell stories, build structures, interact with music and create their own art.

As you help your child develop her budding creativity at home, here are a few ways you can encourage her to branch out and try new things:

• Ask open-ended questions and provide supportive comments that keep her ideas flowing.
  
• Explore play-based learning activities, whether it’s through song, wearing costumes or acting out stories.
• Try one of these Family Fun or Science Fun activities together on a rainy (or snowy) day.
• Get in the kitchen! There are so many easy and delicious Snacktivity recipes to choose from.

Nurturing Creativity in the Classroom

Every day in our Primrose classrooms, children exercise creativity through art projects, unstructured play, music, activities that encourage problem solving and critical thinking, and more. Empowering children to be creative helps stimulate their sense of exploration, imagination, innovation and self-expression.

Building the Confidence to be Creative

When it comes to embracing creativity – both in the classroom and at home – there’s also a certain amount of risk-taking involved. Whenever children explore a new concept, try something new or deviate from the traditional way of doing things, they are taking a risk, which can be difficult and challenging for them. However, it is important to remember that this is a necessary part of the learning process.

Each time your child has an opportunity to refine her creativity, your support and encouragement along the way will help her develop confidence and self-worth. So, get those creative juices flowing!