Encouraging Creativity in Your Kids

1) Model a creative life

Let your kids in on your own creative outlets. Whether it's creating an online scrapbook, journal writing, floral arrangements, card making, playing flute, etc.  My kids have grown up seeing me write songs and perform in concerts. Because I've continued to develop my creative side, from as young as 18 mos-2 yrs they'll sit at the piano and scribble on a sheet of paper and bang on the piano keys while singing.

2) Have a variety of artistic mediums available

From polymer clay figurines to finger paints to play dough to a piano to colored pencils, have a variety of artistic mediums readily available and within reach of younger children. Encourage your child to explore his or her senses in the creative process by asking questions that help your child reflect on the process of creating. Remember that there is no right or wrong way to be creative.  Focus on the process instead of the finished product.

3) Use a "broad brush" when defining creativity

Don't limit creativity to the visual or performing arts. I encourage my children to use creativity in solving relationship problems, in school work, in expressions of gratitude, and in how they approach any type of problem. Creativity is a way to approach life, not only a finished "product" to display on the fridge.