Creativity
and Play
Creativity is the freest form of self-expression. There is
nothing more satisfying and fulfilling for children than to be able to express
themselves openly and without judgment. The ability to be creative, to create
something from personal feelings and experiences, can reflect and nurture
children's emotional health. The experiences children have during their first
years of life can significantly enhance the development of their creativity.
Importance
of the Creative Process
All children need to be truly creative is the freedom to
commit themselves completely to the effort and make whatever activity they are
doing their own. What's important in any creative act is the process of
self-expression. Creative experiences can help children express and cope with
their feelings. A child's creative activity can help teachers to learn more
about what the child may be thinking or feeling. Creativity also fosters mental
growth in children by providing opportunities for trying out new ideas, and new
ways of thinking and problem-solving. Creative activities help acknowledge and
celebrate children's uniqueness and diversity as well as offer excellent
opportunities to personalize our teaching and focus on each child.
Opportunities
for Creativity
Children need plenty of opportunities for creative play and
creative thinking. Start by providing activities that are based on the
children's interests and ideas. This means learning how to listen intently to
what children are saying. It is very helpful to tape record and transcribe
children's conversations as well as take notes and review them with your
co-teachers.
Be sure to offer
children a wide range of creative materials and experiences. Being creative is
more than drawing or painting. There's also photography, music, field trips,
working with wire, clay, paper, wood, water or shadows. The possibilities are
endless. It's important to provide children lots of time to explore materials
and pursue their ideas. This includes time to think about how to plan, design,
construct, experiment and revise project ideas. Don't forget to build in time
to talk these ideas over with other people - both teachers and children.
Varieties
of Experience
Look for ways to provide multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and other
community experiences for children. Activities such as field trips, celebrating
holidays and activities with other ethnic groups, and encouraging children to
bring visitors to school enhances the creative process. The more varied
experiences children have in their lives, the wider the range of creative
expression. The more personal experiences children have with people and
situations outside of their own environment, the more material they can draw on
to incorporate in their play. Our challenge is to try not to be intimidated by
the variety and diversity of artistic expression in our classroom.
Fostering
the Creative Process
Encouraging children to make their own choices is important.
Children should be permitted frequent opportunities - and lots of time - to
experience and explore expressive materials. Put your emphasis on the process
of creativity and not on the finished product. What children learn and discover
about themselves is vital to their development. Show your support for the
creative process by appreciating and offering support for children's efforts.
Independence and control are important components in the creative process.
Enjoy,
Ms. Nora Sierra
Early Childhood Assistant Principal
Discovery School
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