58 September 2013 www.womanthismonth.com LIFESTYLE | parenting Encourage creativity in everyday experiences Creativity is not always tangible and it really can happen anywhere. It can be inspired by music, architecture, colours, foods – the list is endless. By using everyday experiences to facilitate creativity, you are showing your child that their surroundings, even the simplest things in life, can help them to imagine the unknown. Try this out in the car, on a walk or when you’re cooking together. Take crayons and paper along when you go out to eat and on long journeys. Ask your child what they would like to draw. Join in yourself too. Encourage your children to draw a scene, a story about a restaurant in another country or on Mars. Get them to talk about their ideas. Build their confidence To build confidence and self-esteem, it’s good to encourage your child to see things in many different ways and believe in their ideas. You may need to help them express what they’re thinking, so encourage them to write and draw as well as vocalise their thoughts. Let them take the lead in coming up with new ideas. Let them know that you are interested in their thoughts and creations. Celebrate success to show them that their unique styles are valued. By being an enthusiastic and encouraging parent, you are making a difference to their artwork and perception of art, whilst helping them to develop to their full potential. Have fun being creative! Dr Clare Beckett-McInroy is a certified professional coach, who works with individuals and organisations to enable them to reach their potential. Email [email protected]. How can you help promote creativity? • Provide art materials • Have an art space or centre in your home • Talk with your kids about their art advocate or why something may not work. • Encourage your child to be a problem solver • Visit galleries and museums • Take their work seriously • Encourage them to try new ideas
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