Children do not just learn from reading textbooks. Every activity and experience is an opportunity to grow not just knowledge but also other skills, such as emotional intelligence, problem-solving and communication. Creative expression allows them to do this in new and unrestricted ways, making a vital contribution to their overall well-being.
Forms of Creativity
Creativity may take many forms. Drawing, painting, writing, music, cooking, sculpting, dancing, acting, knitting, and gardening are just some of the ways that children can express their ideas, produce work both artistic and practical, and hopefully learn all kinds of new skills to improve their self-confidence.
The fact that creativity is such a diverse field means that every child should be able to find an activity to suit them. There does not have to be a specific end goal in mind, and in fact, it is often particularly beneficial if children are free to follow their own whims without any rules or boundaries. This opens up a space with no expectations or pressure where they can learn without even realising it.
Some creative activities can be enjoyed with just the imagination, others may need some basic equipment such as a pencil and pen, or crochet kits www.woolcouturecompany.com/collections/crochet-kits. This means there are lots of ways for the child to engage with the activity, improving different skills as they go.
Creativity and Neurodivergence
Children who are neurodivergent, such as those who are autistic, often struggle to communicate with people who are neurotypical. They may be nonverbal, or simply not know how to express their innermost thoughts and feelings in words. Creative activities can act as translators, an alternative way to express emotion that allows for increased engagement and understanding. Contrary to some stereotypes, autistic traits are often associated with high levels of creativity.
Participating in creative activities can make children happier and healthier, giving them new ways to communicate their feelings, developing a wide range of skills and helping improve their overall self-confidence and ability to act independently, especially when they are neurodivergent. Creativity should be an important part of every child’s life.