A child’s creativity is an open tap.

It just flows.

As we adults can testify, too often that tap closes once we start getting “educated.” Instead of drawing out our potential, we learn to draw ourselves into a neat little box.

Broadening our children’s knowledge is healthy. But why must it be at the expense of their wonderful creative swell? How do we keep their taps open and flowing while allowing for greater understanding to develop in other areas?

There’s no one-size-fits-all formula. Every kid is different. But here’s my drop in the ocean of advice.

Give your kids permission to test things out. Teach them to think for themselves. Let them know it’s ok to make mistakes. It’s ok to look foolish. It’s ok to do stupid things without having to feel guilt or shame. Arghh, the demon of shame!

Creative thinking requires practice. We make our kids practice piano, soccer, times tables, etc. Why not train them to think for themselves?

Keep the tap open folks. Your kids will thank you for it one day.

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