How to Support Your Child's Creative Talent
Creativity is either born or cultivated, but each and every one of us has it within us. If you have children, it’s crucial for their overall development that you strive to support the creative talent they have or may have. They need you to believe in them and show them the best way to be creative people to help them reach their full potential.
For many children, art comes naturally. From painting and drawing to making music. The arts aren’t only a source of fun, but also a way to inspire collaboration, build confidence, and foster problem-solving skills.
If your little artist is ready to learn to play music, act, paint or draw, follow these tips to support their creative journey. If they feel inside that they can do it, no matter the difficulties, support them in their passions and interests – whatever you think is most important to them! Follow these tips to support your child’s creative talent.
Support creative talent with music
Children who play musical instruments are known to have higher IQs and perform better on standardized tests than their peers. If your child is interested in playing music, find an instrument that they want to play. Often, parents make the mistake of choosing the instrument for the child, which can diminish their interest.
Instead, let your child try a few different instruments to see which one they like best. Ideally, start with basic instruments. This may mean that the oboe, bassoon, violin and trumpet may not be options, at least at first.
If you’re not a professional musician, hire someone to teach you the basics, such as how to read music and take care of your instrument. Internet resources allow you to find dozens of local music teachers and tutors at the click of a mouse. Find a music teacher who’s energetic and passionate about music to inspire your child to play.
Attend performances
There are a variety of kid-friendly shows you can see at your local theater or on the big stages. From singing and dancing to following along with the story, your child will learn and grow from this experience. Take your child to a theater show or musical that features child actors to spark their interest in this art form.
Find a show that matches your child’s age and interest. If your child wants to be an actor, support his or her dream. That doesn’t mean you have to spend endless amounts of money on lessons and auditions, but you can sign them up for local productions or even just include them in a home production.
Set up a stage and costumes, and let your little one act out a scene in the living room. Younger siblings can also be cast as supporting actors. You’ll also need to be sure to record the entire performance. If you don’t, you’ll regret it later!
Inspire creativity to enhance their creative talent
When children are encouraged to express themselves through art, they develop a sense of innovation that extends into their adult lives. Following instructions is great, but young artists are more progressive than their peers and are more willing to take risks.
In addition, art helps young children develop fine motor skills and impacts visual learning, language development, decision-making, and cultural awareness. Children who participate in art activities for at least three hours per day are more likely to be recognized for their academic achievement than children who don’t participate in these types of activities.
When it comes to art, give your child space to express themselves, without coloring on the walls, of course. Art supplies such as easels, sketchbooks, or even a large roll of paper can be your child’s canvas.
If your child is a budding Picasso, show them you’re proud of their artwork; frame it and hang it on the wall. Not only are you preserving a childhood memory, but you’re supporting their creativity. Your child will realize the importance of creativity and will enjoy doing things that motivate them.