Encouraging Creativity

Jace's Introduction-2-Art-Jun-1-2011

Who encourages creativity in children? As grandparents, we can encourage a child’s creativity – if we value creativity. All children are born with creative potential but, it has to be nurtured. They need to be encouraged as they play and explore their world. This is how they develop the confidence to attempt new and creative projects.

Children should not be discouraged and critiqued all the time. Constant supervision squashes a child’s imagination, spontaneity and self-confidence. So, let them explore and play freely, you’ll be amazed at how creative they’ll become.

Introduction-to-Art-2-Jun-24-2011

We should encourage creativity in children because a creative mind is a happy mind. Later, creativity is useful in leaders, business, and in many other professions.

Art-by-Jace-Dec-05-2011

How can we encourage creativity? As grandparents, we must introduce children to things that spark imagination. The number one and best way to encourage creativity is to keep materials on hand and within the child’s reach, that they can experiment with.

Crayons, markers, drawing pads, and boxes of all sizes and shapes are good starters for children of all ages. Give a child a box and some crayons, you’ll be amazed at what they produce.

Give a child access to crayons and your clothes dryer becomes a "work of art"!

Jace the "Artist-at-Work"-Dec-23-2011

What is your favorite way to encourage creativity in children?

Say What?!

An Irish daughter had not been home for over 5 years. Upon her return, her Father scolded her harshly.

"Where have ye been all this time? Why did ye not write to us, not even a line? Why didn't ye call? Can ye not understand what ye put yer old Mother thru?"

The girl, crying, replied, "Sniff, sniff....Dad....I became a prostitute..."

"Ye what!!? Out of here, ye shameless harlot! Sinner! You're a disgrace to this Catholic family."

"OK, Dad-- as ye wish. I just came back to give mum this luxurious fur coat, title deed to a ten bedroom mansion, plus a $5 million savings certificate. For me little brother, this gold Rolex. And for ye Daddy, the sparkling new Mercedes limited edition convertible that's parked outside, plus a membership to the country club........................ (she takes a
breath)............. and an invitation for ye all to spend New Year’s Eve on board my new yacht in the Riviera and ... ..."

"Now what was it ye said ye had become?" says Dad.

Girl, crying again, "Sniff, sniff....a prostitute Daddy! Sniff, sniff."

"Oh! My goodness! Ye scared me half to death, girl! I thought ye said a Protestant. Come here and give yer old Dad a hug."

Adversity

Difficult times are not much fun. Yet they can give you great and valuable insights into what's truly important.

There is much to be gained when times are good. There is even more to be gained when times are tough.

Resolve to persevere and grow stronger through whatever difficulties may come. For though the difficulties will eventually end, the treasures they compel you to create can often last a lifetime. ~~ Ralph Marston