Finding solutions and generating new, original ideas are good exercises for the brain and skills that will prove very useful in life. It’s not about big discoveries at all. It could be a more ergonomic arrangement of things in kitchen cabinets or the use of some seemingly unnecessary object. Of course, it’s easier for some people and harder for others. However, what helps is simply training it and providing space for creative thinking, from an early age. Free time is a good moment to practise creative thinking. Here are some ideas:
Training time
Think about what would have happened, if...
There was no colour green?
It was always summer?
Electricity hadn’t been invented?
Everyone could hear what others think about them?
Each of you could also propose your own “What if...?” question.
Try to come up with as many different solutions as possible. You can write them down or draw them. You can come up with new questions tailored to your children’s age. This game can go on and on.
Go outside the lines
You probably remember tracing patterns or colouring at school. You were supposed to stay inside the lines and there could not be a single white spot left in the background. Creativity doesn’t like excessively rigid rules. So, allow your child to play freely, meaning that the child is the one to decide what they do, how they do it and what they use. When playing, use everyday objects. Can a plastic toy box be a doll’s pool? Sure! What’s important is not to limit oneself.