Creativity and imagination are two ingredients that can begin to be cultivated during childhood. Families, like the educational environment, offer a frame of reference for children in their interaction with reality. What can parents do to foster their children's creative potential without resorting to screens? The screens can be used with a pedagogical criterion in the academic field.
They are also part of the routine of many homes. However, when used excessively, they interfere with communication between parents and children. And, furthermore, they can encourage excessive dependency. What alternatives can be evaluated in this context?
1. Educate and cultivate interest in reading
Through their own personal example, parents transmit valuable lessons to their children. For example, when a parent goes to the library frequently to consult the latest catalogue, she shows her interest in the literary universe. Well then, You can also positively accompany your child in this personal discovery.. Reading aloud, attending storytellers and creating stories are some examples of proposals that revolve around words. It is also possible to give children's books for Christmas, birthdays or back to school.
2. Childhood boredom is not negative
Why is it important that screens do not fill children's free time? Because they can cover childhood boredom through continuous occupation. And overprotection is not an appropriate response to the boredom that a child may feel.. That feeling, although less stimulating than other personal experiences, is not negative. In fact, creativity and imagination are valuable resources to transform a scenario that is conditioned by boredom into a moment of fun.
3. Cultural activities
The cultural activities are very creative. Theater and cinema are very positive proposals. For example, it is advisable to discuss a movie as a family. Parents can ask their children open-ended questions about the plot, values, characters, or any other question about the play. In the same way, it is possible to plan visits to museums. The essence of art can be cultivated in one's own home through timeless activities such as drawing, coloring or painting. And it is worth choosing extracurricular activities artistic theme.
4. Choice of educational gifts
How to enhance children's creativity without resorting to screens? Then, It is important to give educational gifts on specific dates such as Christmas and birthdays. That is, it is essential to select a proposal according to the child's age that encourages learning. It is advisable to practice responsible consumption through purchasing habits that prioritize the needs of the child. If you are looking for a good gift for your child, ask yourself the following question: What abilities or skills can he or she develop through playing with this proposal?
5. Family conversations
Excessive screens interfere with communication and dialogue between parents and children. It creates a barrier in interaction, enhances silence and generates distance. It is advisable to cultivate the art of conversation at home. Breakfast, lunch and dinner offer spaces to share quality moments with the family, especially during the weekend. Why does family dialogue nourish children's creativity and imagination? Because it offers different perspectives and points of view on reality.
Finally, there are other proposals that produce a positive impact on children: traveling, enjoying contact with nature and cultivating creative writing. Parents can get involved to create an environment of learning and discovery.