Let them create whatever they would like.
 Do not feel you have to tell children how to create. They will
experiment. There is no right or wrong solution. The trying and
practicing is what is important, not the final item.
Nurturing Creativity
With the increased emphasis on state standards
in school, why should we consider spending
time on creativity?
Albert Einstein said, “Reason can answer
questions but imagination has to ask
them.”
Children are naturally curious. Curiosity leads them to explore their
world... By examining different objects (which objects make a loud
sound, move, squish, etc); children are practicing problem solving
skills. This is a very valuable skill to have as an adult.
Look at some things children learn from creating art
projects:
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Making decisions
Fine motor control (using small muscles)
Ability to value others’ ideas
Taking turns
Communication skills
Set out a variety of objects that children can create art out of such
as: empty thread spools, paper towel tubes, rocks that are large
enough not to be swallowed, leaves that you collect on a walk,
markers, glitter glue, clay, plastic bowls, cookie cutters, ribbon,
large paper, newspaper to cut up and tear, paint, etc.

Work alongside them and give them as much time as they
want. If children see adults doing creative work, the creativity
takes on a role of importance.

Let your child tell you about his project so he can explain it
to you.
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Go to art fairs, museums, and exhibits at the local
community college so children can be inspired.
Other fun ideas:
 Set out different types of paper and let your child (ren)
experiment with them. Ex: cellophane, wallpaper, wax paper,
foil, etc. Have them tear, cut, glue and let them tell you what
they liked doing with them.

Have building blocks contests and see how many different
structures they can create.
For more information see: Rapunzel’s Supermarket All about Young
Children and Their Art by Ursula Kolbe 2001.
Author: Sherry Rocha, Family Life Educator, Macon County.
Editor: Patti Faughn, Family Life Educator, Springfield Center, Fall 2006.
For more information contact:
Angela Reinhart, Family Life Educator
University of Illinois Extension
Champaign County Unit
801 N. Country Fair Drive, Suite D
Champaign, IL 61821
217/333-7672
University of Illinois  US Dept of Agriculture
Local Extension Councils Cooperating
University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.