Before we discuss ways to encourage creativity, we should all agree that it is not an innate ability in all of us. One of the main reasons creativity seems so hard is that we desire it so much. When you really want to “be creative”, it’s hard to see that what you’re doing is creative. It may seem derivative, boring, or just not very good, when in fact it’s quite creative. Hence, it’s a long path to cultivate our teens’ creativity.
What’s our first way to encourage creativity? Don’t give them too many rules, but definitely have a few restrictions. High quality creativity is always bound by some restriction and forces the individual to think their way to the solution.
If our kids try something new that won’t hurt anyone else or themselves, don’t stop them. Usually, we can’t deny that children sometimes have more creativity than adults. Children don’t know they have this potential, and we need to make them understand and boost their creativity.
Then, we start with some ways less abstract.
The second way that can encourage creativity in young-children is using open-ended toys. Traditional toys such as blocks, building sets, toy animals or Lego can be used in multiple ways for multiple purposes and will encourage imaginative play and creativity.
Meanwhile, don’t be afraid of our smart techniques. You can control how our children will use it. Why don’t we guide our kids to enjoy, for example, coding, 3D moulding and design? Here are some websites that you may have a try: coding, Scratch & Scratch Jr., Blockly, Code for Life, Gamestar Mechanic, Code Monster by Crunchzilla.
The third way is providing a Creative Home Environment.
Making sure your child feels relaxed and comfortable at home can hugely contribute to whether or not they feel they can creatively express themselves. Allowing them to think and play, without strict rules or judgement, as well as giving the right encouragement, creates an environment where they can explore their ideas and nurture their creativity.
Then, let’s have unstructured time.
Often, creativity is stimulated when children have quiet time alone. This is why structured playtime is sometimes limited, as children are ‘expected’ to be creative for a set amount of time. By allowing a more relaxed structure for a few hours a day, children can be encouraged to develop creative thinking. In fact, this would allow children to play and create without any time constraints – after all, creativity needs room to breathe.
Another thing you can do is be creative with your teens. You can’t just say, ‘Hey, dude, you need to be creative! I believe in you’. You should be creative with your children and let them know that you really think it’s important for everyone.
Last but not least, it is important to show children that it is okay to be different. This may be somewhat similar to number one, but this one emphasises how you react when your child behaves differently!