Children express themselves creatively through art and music. Also, they become creative thinkers. Creative thinkers have new ideas, solve complex problems and try out new solutions. They might use materials in unique ways or have unexpected answers to questions (Ewing & Tuthill, 2013).
Children need time to explore and try something different. Often, young children use playtime as a way to express themselves. Enough time is essential. I worry about some programs/centers that have 20 to 30 minutes for play or play that is more directed by the teacher(s). Yes, there are still limits on not hurting others or destroying materials/equipment. But children are free to organize and decide on their own the theme of the play, or how long they will work with materials. Children need to be encouraged to take risks, try something new. And the newness that is created should be celebrated by peers and adults.
E. Paul Torrence (1992) researched and provided significant information about creativity. He determined we are most creative when we are four years old. And when you think about four year olds, they are curious, uninhibited, adventurous, and want to try new things. They think differently about things; the ‘sameness’ or expectations of society have not affected them.
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Creative thinkers are ones who ‘think out of the box’, divergent thinkers. Torrence thought the creative process involved: originality, generation of many ideas, flexibility or ability to change thinking, and expand ideas to make them more complex.
So, encourage your child’s new ways of thinking and doing. Have time for your child to explore, play, and talk about her activities. You might ask open-ended questions to foster further creativity such as, “What might happen next?” “What else do you need (materials)?” Encourage her to talk about her play/work/creative expression. Support your child’s interests; let her decide what to make with art materials or what to play. Share your child’s excitement and celebrate new ideas!