(NAPSA)—Fostering a child’s cour- age to expresscreativity is perhaps one ofthe most important goals that parents cansetfor themselves. Understanding Creativity Often, when people think of creativ- ity, they think ofthe arts, but it starts with play early in life and leads to other things as children grow. Its through play thatchildren begin to develop their creative muscles, whether with blocks, dolls or action figures. Beyondplay, kids Enhanceyourchildren’s creativity by mayfindcreativity in the way they play sports, clean their room, prepare their foodor dotheir schoolwork. According to experts at The Genius of Play”, a national movementto raise awareness about play’s critical role in encouraging themtotry new things. viduality and mental agility, and even contribute to better physical health. with many different kinds of toys and child developmentand encourage more play in children’s lives, creativity can help build confidence, flexibility, indiExpert Advice Dr.Erik Fisher, Ph.D. and The Genius of Play expert, believes the best way to fosterchildren’screativity is to encourage them to try things andnotfeel afraid to fail. Failure itself is an amazing learning experienceas it helps children develop + Don’tfocus on justthe arts. Play has a key role in helping develop children’s creative muscles. Aschildren develop creativity in onearea, it often extends to otherareas. + Help yourkidsstretch their creativity muscles and yours by experimenting playful activities. Trying new things lets kids discover what they like and explore their owntalents. + Observeandappreciate your children’s uniquenessandcelebrate how they do thingsdifferently. + Theres no better way to dry up cre- ativity than withcriticism. Try to find constructive ways to give feedback and seek waystobepositive. tenacity and perseverance, which are someofthe most importantskills they'll needlaterin life. At the sametime, parents should be aware of their own emotions,attitudes andbeliefs and bewilling to create with their child. Many times, parents wanttheir kids to “fit in” and don'trealize they're stifling creativity. Tohelp ensure thatcreativity is part ‘You can get ideas on how to enhance creativity and other developmental benefits, expert advice and play resources at suggests: Play on Facebookand on Instagram. + Help your child see failure through play as a learning experience, not a timeto quit. Learn More of yourchild’s play routine, Dr. Fisher www.TheGeniusofPlay.org, @GeniusOf
