It’s before

they’re caught up in the rules and responsibilities of school.

The first step in promoting creativity is to make sure you show you value it. Here are some ways you can nurture your child’s creativity:

• Give freedom. Let your child pursue activities that interest her. Don’t hover over everything she does. Avoid offering assistance that might not be needed.

• Be encouraging. Praise effort and creativity, rather than the actual product. For example say, “This is interesting. Tell me about it,” instead of “That’s a beautiful drawing.”

• Ask questions that allow for varied answers. If there’s only one “right” answer, it’s not a good question.

• Expect a mess. Buy washable art supplies. Protect household items during messy activities. Resist cleaning up your child’s projects before she’s “done.”

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