The Importance of Creativity in Fostering Family Relationships

    Children are born naturally curious, with an abundance of creativity. Parents and caregivers play a significant role in fostering creativity within children that can lead to positive outcomes for both child and parent. Parents are a child's first teacher, the ones who will influence a child the longest. When parents encourage a creative mindset within their children and allow children access to activities that encourage imaginative play, creative expression and exploration, they are setting their children up for an enriching life that is indicative of proper development. 

   It is often in the presence of children that parents seek their own creative endeavors. Parents can learn from the creative spirit of their children by engaging in activities with their children. The process of the activity is the most important aspect, while generating ideas should be collaborative. Children should be encouraged to be the guide, the director or the teacher in order to give them the confidence and the desire to pursue novel ideas. 

    I am amazed and inspired by the imaginations of my children. They truly learn through play and when I give them the access to materials (art materials, materials in nature, everyday objects, cooking supplies etc.) they astound me with their unique ideas and compilations. When I encourage them to explore, ask questions, and make observations, they continue to thrive in their creative undertakings. It is this time that we set aside for creative undertakings, whether it be cooking together, making a collage together, painting a picture, picking out and planting flowers, or building a fort together that help to encourage and strengthen the relationships between family members.