Growing up as an introverted creative kid, I often wished for more support from my surroundings. During my childhood, the internet hadn’t developed into the incredible resource it is now, limiting our access to information. At times, this made me feel overlooked. But looking back, I see how hard my parents worked to provide me with the knowledge they had.
When I began teaching a couple of years ago, I started to see myself in the young learners I met. I learned how to support children better, especially children who are creative-leaning…or in other words extraordinary!
Recently, I realized that teaching was a much-needed part of my human journey. Connecting with children was a path for my inner child to be seen and acknowledged.
Reflecting on my childhood and journey as an arts educator I’ve concluded some pivotal ways that parents can better support their creative kids at home and I am sharing them with you this month:
Engage in Art Together: Try a fun and engaging art project with your young learner. Art is for people of all ages, and creating together not only models open expression and risk-taking but also strengthens your bond.
Create a Dedicated Art Space: Establish a “Studio” at home where your child can feel inspired to create. This could be a simple setup with a table or easel surrounded by various art supplies.
Focus on Effort Over Outcome: Provide feedback and encouragement based on effort and progress rather than the finished artwork. This helps your child overcome perfectionism and enjoy the creative process more fully.
Expose Them to the Arts: Deepen your child's appreciation for art by visiting museums, galleries, and exploring art books. This exposure enhances their understanding of history, culture, and more.
Celebrate Creativity: Host an art exhibition at home to celebrate your child’s creative journey! Even a simple DIY art show can make a huge difference in how they view their work and abilities. For a step-by-step guide on how to organize a home art exhibition for your young artist, click here to claim your free guide.
As a parent of a creative child, you have the ability to create a container for your child to reach their creative potential. I hope you found those tips helpful. If you have any other tips or experiences you’d like to share, I’d love to hear them.
Sincerely,
Miss Jenny
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