As parents, we often focus on helping our children “do things right.” But sometimes, the most powerful growth comes from letting them do things differently.
1. 🧠 Encourage questions, not just answers
When your child asks “Why?” or “What if?”, treat it as a gift. These questions show curiosity — the root of creativity. Instead of giving quick answers, explore together.
💡 Example: If your child asks, “Why do shops have sales?”, turn it into a mini-discussion about supply, demand, and customer behaviour.
🎯 Tip: Ask open-ended questions like “How else could we do this?” or “What would happen if…?”
2. 🎨 Create space for imagination
Children need time and freedom to play, invent, and explore. Give them materials — paper, boxes, string, old clothes — and let them build, design, or perform.
💡 Mini-story: A girl turned a cardboard box into a “business booth” where she sold handmade bracelets. Her parents didn’t direct — they simply asked, “What’s your plan?” and watched her lead.
3. 🛠 Let them solve real problems
Involve your child in family decisions: planning meals, organising spaces, choosing gifts. Ask for their ideas and let them try.
🎯 Challenge: Next time something breaks or goes wrong at home, ask your child, “How would you fix this?” You might be surprised.
4. 🔄 Celebrate effort and originality
Praise not just results, but the process. If your child tries something new — even if it doesn’t work — acknowledge their creativity.
💬 Say this: “I love how you thought of that. It’s different — and that’s exciting.”
💡 Real example: A boy made a messy, colourful chart to track his chores. It wasn’t perfect, but it was his idea — and he used it every day.
5. 🌱 Model creative thinking
Let your child see you brainstorm, adapt, and reflect. Share your own “what if” moments. Show that creativity isn’t just for kids — it’s a lifelong skill.
🎯 Tip: Try something new together — a recipe, a game, a DIY project. Talk about what worked, what didn’t, and what you’d change.
Conclusion
Creative thinking is a gift — and a skill. With your support, your child can learn to see the world not just as it is, but as it could be. And in that space of possibility, they’ll find confidence, joy, and the courage to build something truly their own.
By Tetiana Larina
