Many parents want their children to grow up creative, possessing all the skills in the world. Some even dream of their children to be featured on shows like Oprah or the Ellen DeGeneres Show. But how can you train your child to be creative and become the future Mozart when all that he wants to do is play in the sandbox?
According to a New York Times article, the first step that you should take to raise a creative child is to back off. That's right. There is no room for your "Don't do that's" and "Do this instead." There is only a room for support and love.
A study was conducted on the family background of some of the most successful people in the world, which includes world-class artists, athletes, musicians and scientists. The study was led by psychologist Benjamin Bloom, who went out of his way to look into the parenting styles of the parents of these famous individuals.
The result of the study was quite astonishing. Parents of truly successful people didn't impose their desires on their children. They weren't drill sergeants who guard every step that the child takes. Rather, they were more of doting parents who support and motivate their children, depending on the latter's skills, desires and interest.
One good example is the famous Mozart. He was not forced by his parents to take piano lessons. What happened was he showed interest in playing the piano, which prompted his parents to have him take piano lessons.
In terms of sports, world champions like Andre Agassi can't recall experiencing extreme pressure to be good at his game. All he can remember is that his first coach made playing tennis really fun.
The list of people who became absolutely good at what they do, not because of the strict prodding of their parents, goes on. The common ground among all of them is the fact that parents were supportive of their child's interests.
If you're still at a loss, take a look at some of the tips given by Aha Parenting on how to raise a creative child:
1. Don't be Mrs. Clean. Allow your kids to get their hands dirty at manageable levels.
2. Don't put too much limits on what they can do for as long as it will not put them in danger.
3. Allow your child to be somewhat different from others so that she can develop her individuality.
4. Allow your toddler to make a mess, of course, only those that you can manage to clean up afterwards.
5. If you can, provide her with art supplies, and give her a space where she can express her creativity.
There is no hard and fast rule on how to raise a creative kid. What matters is the love and support that you give to your budding artist.
