Creativity and play

Creativity is inextricably bound up with children and is extremely important for the development of children. (For more information about children and creativity, please click here). The best way for children to be creative is through play. For children the foundation of creativity is playing. Creative play really unleashes the creativity of children.

Why is creative play so important?

During creative play, the imagination and creativity of children is at its best. Spontaneous and self-directed play stimulates the creative spirit of children. Playing freely and being creative is crucial for children’s development as it stimulates the physical and mental development and new ways of thinking and problem solving. Creative play also stimulates social development: through creative dramatic play children play and experiment with social roles and interactions. They discover differences between each other and learn to respect, to appreciate and to take those differences into account. While playing children get the opportunity to express their feelings and to make decisions without help or input of adults.

What is creative play?

We talk about creative play when children use toys or familiar materials in new or unusual ways and when children engage in role-playing and imaginative play.

Can adults encourage creative play?

Yes, adults can encourage creative play by creating the right environment and providing the tools and toys for creative play. Create or plan time for spontaneous and self-directed creative play, but do not dominate it. Provide tools and toys that encourage children’s imagination and fantasy world. Avoid toys and activities that are too detailed and leave nothing to the imagination and fantasy of children.