3 Back-to-School Crafts that Encourage Creative Thinking

Creativity came naturally to us as children. As we chased our siblings around in the backyard, a cardboard box became a rocket ship or robot costume. When they are young, children are accustomed to seeing things for what they may be rather than for what they are, and it’s this sort of creative mindset that allows them to explore the world around them with confidence and curiosity.

Contents

  • The Role of Creativity in Our Lives
  • Creative Thinking as a Form of Self-Expression
  • 3 Easy Crafts for Children to Encourage Creative Thinking

The Role of Creative Thinking in Our Lives

As we grow into adulthood, creativity can be invaluable, and it’s important to keep the creative, curious mindset of our youth as we continue to navigate the world for the rest of our lives. When we allow ourselves to lose our creative freedom, we begin to stray farther away from the elements of our lives that hold the most meaning and importance to us.

Creative Thinking as a Form of Self-Expression

The most liberating form of self-expression is creativity, and nothing is more enjoyable and rewarding for youngsters than being allowed the freedom to express themselves without fear of judgement.

The emotional health of children may be reflected and nurtured by their ability to be creative—to create something that stems from their own feelings and experiences.

Fortunately, parents can begin encouraging creative thinking in their young children from their earliest days. As they grow older and begin to demonstrate an even further interest in the people and things around them, parents can use art as a medium for self-expression and creative thinking.

3 Easy Crafts for Children to Encourage Creative Thinking

Sculpting with a mixing medium, such as clay or Play-Doh.
Hand-making a craft is an incredible way to boost the self-confidence of a child and increase his or her capacity for creative thinking. Allow your child to explore the different textures and colors of different sculpting mediums you have available around the house, or take a trip to your nearest craft store—clay or Play-Doh will work well for this exercise.

Compose an original painting or drawing.
Kids that draw and paint with enthusiasm are often prone to spontaneous and creative ideas. As children work on their painting or drawing project, they will learn how to make choices and combinations through the variety of their supplies, so make sure your child has everything he or she needs to get started with exploring their artistic interests through creative thinking.

Arrange a dramatic and exciting play.
Allowing time for imaginative and dramatic play is a great way to encourage creative thinking in slightly older children. Invite your child to act like their favorite animal or person as you try to guess, or help your child put on a small play in your living room to showcase for your family.