Any parent who’s walked into a baby store or toy store can attest to the fact that there about a million different products on the market that allegedly help get your kid’s creative juices flowing. I can’t validate all of these products’ claims, though I’m sure some of them help at least the slightest bit.
Before you run off to one of these retailers and throw money left and right in the hopes that you’ll raise the next Mozart or Picasso, I figured I’d let you in on a little secret: the key to cultivating creativity in your baby comes from within.
You see, babies are already able to boost their own creativity without the aid of expensive toys, applications, and doohickeys. In fact, all it takes is a little bit of proper stimulation and you won’t have to break the bank to do so.
Mona Delahooke, Ph.D., recently revealed 5 sure-fire ways to increase creativity in babies with New Parent and once we learned her helpful tips, we knew had to share them.
Take a look at what the acclaimed pediatric psychologist had to say bout boosting creativity in your baby:
1. Let baby lead the way
Playing is always a great way to embrace creativity in young children. “When babies are having fun, they are most in that window of creativity and learning,” claims Delahooke.
That said, it’s important that you let your baby lead the way during playtime. If you force them to be entertained by any certain toy or plaything, they may lose interest or you may limit their creativity. Gauge your baby’s reaction to certain playthings and let them play with whatever toy they choose. And don’t force them into playtime, if they’ve had enough playtime, then let your creative little one take a nap!
2. Embrace black and white
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In case you didn’t already know, babies can’t perceive colour until they’re around 4 to 6 months. So, a great way to cultivate creativity in your baby’s early month is to embrace what they can see: black and white.
“Choose black and white stripes or patterns with light and dark contrasting colours. Research shows that a baby’s brain gets strong visual signals from black and white contrasts—and those signals boost brainpower. You can encourage touch, too, by incorporating silky and soft, furry textures,” says Delahooke.
3. Silly faces
Face time… not the one you’re probably thinking of though. As Delahooke claims, “The best toy for a baby is the human face.”
Infants have a low field of vision, so make sure you’re within 8 to 10 inches and let the good times (and silly faces) roll! Be as playful and engaging as possible, though, you should also be mindful. If your baby is giving any clear signs that he/she is tired or uninterested, they may be overstimulated and need a break.
4. Music
Image source: iStock
As good a singer as you may be, try implementing some music into your baby’s life. It can greatly develop their appreciation for music which is an incredibly artistic and creative outlet. If your baby doesn’t respond well to the music, try switching up the song or artist, and if they truly do prefer, maybe go back to singing to them! Either way, your baby will develop a great sense of creativity from music.
5. Develop time for “exploration”
Image source: iStock
No matter how busy, or tired you are, if you want your baby to thrive in regards to creativity, you’ll need to set aside time every day and allow for creative growth.
“All parents are busy, but time is the greatest gift you can give your baby if you want creativity to develop,” says Delahooke.
You’ll have to get creative yourself if you want to make the most of this time, though. You’ll need to find a wide range of various textures, toys, colours, and even sounds and let the baby go nuts! Don’t limit or guide them in any way, and just let them explore so that they can truly learn and embrace their own sense of creativity.
If you have any insights, questions or comments regarding the topic, please share them with us!
