Raising a more creative child through art and music: Part 1

My little artist.

Have you ever wondered why some kids are more creative than others? Is it genetic? Is it a result of their environment? In my understanding, it’s a little bit of both. You can often detect at an early age which activities your children have an affinity for. I had a friend whose son could do a perfect impression of Bruce Springsteen (singing and dancing) at the age of two! To be that proficient at something at such an early age, you have to wonder if it’s genetics. My own daughter displayed an intense focus “on her work” as she finger painted up to an hour at a time when she was just a year old. Child prodigy? Probably not, but I suggest that you encourage and provide ample opportunities for your child to develop his or her creative side every day. Here’s how you can do it.

Observe and Enhance

Watch your kids. What do they have a natural interest in doing? When I realized my daughter liked to paint and draw at a very early age, I bought her an artist’s easel. It is not something we take out on special occasions, but rather it is set up permanently in my home office, so she can create a masterpiece whenever the mood strikes. Her easel has a chalkboard on one side and a magnetic white board on the other. It sits in front of a window (for natural light) and has plenty of chalk and markers in the tray at all times. Often when I’m sitting at my desk working, and sometimes even when I’m in another room, Antonia will spontaneously go to her easel and draw a picture. She really likes the white board and has become very adept at drawing faces. I never erase her drawings. It is her space and she is the only one who decides when to change the image.

Another way I foster her creativity is by leaving paper and (washable) markers, crayons, stickers and activity books in her play areas and on the coffee table in the den. Even if she is watching a cartoon (educational, of course!) she often picks up one of her sketch pads and draws or colors while she is watching TV. I display her artwork all over my home, too. We have several bulletin boards in the kitchen and in my office where her paintings, drawings and other creations hang for all to see.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of this article for tips on enhancing your child's creativity through music.