When our kids grow up to a certain age, where they leave those squeaky rubber toys out, they start grabbing our older childrens toys and we suddenly realize we have a little Picassos at home because we find new paintings on our recently painted kitchen wall. Then it is time for us parents to start thinking about other options that will help our children take out all that energy and creativity they have. It is fundamental for our kids to learn to take advantage of all those creative ideas and skills that they are starting to develop. These, will certainly define our kids personality, habits and future jobs.



How do we start? Think of all the new skills your child is developing, how you can take advantage of all that energy and in what different ways can you help him or her. First, your child probably has his or her own space. This is a place where he or she feels especially comfortable this place is commonly our kids room but not always. Try to make space in that place. There, you can set all the new elements that will help your child in this new stage of his life. We know you are probably saying aha! So, I have the place but what do I include in it? Right? Well, we want to include things that will help our children become prepared for further stages too, like; reading time, play time, school, homework etc.

Try to include a small bookcase where your children will be able to organize all their new books, paintings, creations, and games. Once they go to school, they will see many kids tables and chairs so include those in their special space too. They will not only make your child feel more accustomed to this furniture but they will help them feel like grown ups and they will certainly use this space to create their masterpieces and not your kitchen wall. Include crayons, markers, water paintings, different kinds of paper, some attractive books for reading and creating things like; origami or handcrafts, buy them jigsaw puzzles, board games that are fun but that can also help them develop their multiple intelligences.

It seems like we have everything we need in order to help our sweeties to become great artists and to have better skills, but we must not forget the most important thing of all, you! Your child needs your time, your attention, and your help in order to learn and develop his own creativity. Children that do not get their parents attention eventually loose interest in any activity they are doing. So, help them out, cheer them up, and do not forget to tell them how great! Or pretty! Or awesome! Their new creations are. Congratulate them when they achieve something even if it is something that seems easy for you. Motivation is the best tool that parents can use try it when your children are part of new activities, when they achieve something and especially when they are having hard times.

There are certainly many more things you can do to help your child develop his or her creativity. Believe us, this is just the beginning, and it is a great start! Just choose the right place. Give your child the chance to pick his or her own stuff and furniture but, most important of all do not forget that your participation and motivation is the key to your childs success.