Teaching creativity is a hoax…. can’t be done.  “Ya either got it your ya don’t.”  And… you know what… “ya got it.”

Of course, it depends upon what definition you want to give the word.  If you lock “creativity” in a box with the labels such as “Music,” “Art,” “Writing” and “Dance” most people will fail the creative ability test immediately. Creativity or creative thinking is far more than the expression of music, art, writing and dance. For instance, creative minds have developed the technology that we all enjoy today…. it’s just in an arena in which I’m not gifted.

I’m amazed when I hear parents or teachers claim they are teaching creativity, (which expression I over-heard only yesterday.) I wanted to say, “Get out of the way and just watch… kids are innately creative…. with out intervention…. no teaching necessary.”

If kids get to the ripe old age of 5 and are afraid to freely express themselves… it’s because someone stood in their way…. or had an agenda.

Perhaps “nurturing creativity” is far better expression for parents and teachers than “teaching creativity.”  I’m pretty sure this is what the concerned mom had in mind…. I may have just got caught up in the vocabulary.

For Christmas, five of my grand daughters received colored pencils, markers and a ton of other supplies. They love to get together and make cards for each other and for their folks.  There is no need for me to spend time “teaching creativity.” The creative opportunity just needs to be provided, nurtured and their creative natures will take it from there.

Some time ago, I ran across a wonderful video and would like to share it with you.  It will take you a little time but it’s well well worth it.  Sir Ken Robinson will entertain you as well as leave you with a visionary look at nurturing creativity.

Till Later,

Kathy
Insightful Nana

P.S.  I have an art studio that has not been used much since I moved across the hall to the computer room.  I’m getting it organized and putting up a table and chairs for my grands, so when they come to visit  they can use all of my supplies and create to their hearts desire.  “No Teaching Creativity” necessary.