I recently moved close to two of my grandchildren who are in elementary school. They amaze me with their creativity! They have always had a space to work and lots of paper, crayons, markers, and other items at their disposal. However, I wonder whether I am making an effect of them. When I am with them, they usually ask me to do a craft project with them, and I see their creativity growing each time. Here’s what experts say:
Many people assume that creativity is an inborn talent that their kids either do or do not have, but actually, creativity is more skill than inborn talent, and it is a skill families can help their kids develop. Because it is a key to success in nearly everything we do, creativity is a key component of health and happiness and a core skill to practice with kids. Creativity is not limited to artistic and musical expression—it is also essential for science, math, and even social and emotional intelligence. Creative people are more flexible and better problem solvers, which makes them more able to adapt to technological advances and deal with change—as well as take advantage of new opportunities.
I certainly can’t help my urge to create with my grandkids, but I have to assume that showing them my interest in creating with my own art endeavors and making creating fun for them is working well. I hang their artwork in my studio and always commend their efforts. We exchange art work with a note saying “to…with love from”.
My grandson made me a design and asked me to create something for him based on that design. Here’s the result:
Jackie's thoughts on bead embroidery and creativity 