Utah Mama

Nurturing creation from an early Age

My first humanities class in high school was a turning point for me.  My teacher opened my eyes to a world I didn’t even know existed.  As I learned more about it I realized the fundamental principle behind it all was creation & I began to connect that principle to almost everything around me.  Each of us have a basic need to create even though we all use different avenues & methods to explore it.  So how do we cultivate & encourage creation in our little ones?  Here are some ways that I have discovered myself and picked up from other Moms as well.

1. When buying toys opt for the ones that inspire more creativity then some others do. Picking toys that require the more use of imagination the better. Simple blocks can be constructed into a house, castle, or barn for animals.  Fabric that can lend itself to a variety of dress ups.  They can’t all be like this but offer a variety.
2. Don’t leave the little ones home when heading to an art museum.  Children love to look at pictures encourage them to make up a story to go along with the piece of art they are viewing.  Engage them in conversation about the art as you move through the museum.  You will both enjoy & remember the experience more.
3. Expose them to concerts & plays specifically geared toward children.  Make it a quarterly event, they may discover a passion they want to express all their own.
4. Allow them to get messy & use unconventional items around the house as art supplies. Try doing it out side with the recycle bin and glue.
5. Give them free time to pretend & discover on their own, even if you have to “schedule it in”.  This time will help them discover characteristics about themselves that can later be translated into cultivating a talent or passion.
6. Monkey see money do. Don’t neglect your creative side, let them see you enjoying how you express yourself &  invite them to join along.

Emphasize to your children that the fun & discovery is in the process rather than the end result.  The earlier they learn this the better they will handle inevitable failures & disappointments that come in life.  If they are passionate about the journey success will follow.