collaborative guest post
A child’s imagination is a wild place and something that should be nurtured. In fact, encouraging a child’s imagination is more likely to have a bigger impact on their learning in the future compared to if they were to pick up knowledge on letters and shapes. Young children are naturally innovative and have an incredibly creative minds.
These are actually qualities that are extremely valuable for children as they help support learning in school as well as throughout the rest of their lives. However, over time, the pressure to introduce academic knowledge, such as basic numeracy and literacy, has only increased meaning parents are diverting their attention away from the importance of nurturing their little one’s imagination. Read further for some advice from this pre prep school in London, on how to boost your child’s imagination.
Read and indulge in stories
One of the easiest and best ways to foster imagination in children is by reading to them. This is because the more we read, the better we can understand and expand our knowledge. Reading explores the process of being open to new ideas and having an understanding of new things. It is quite literally a place that helps us dig deep into our minds to imagine a certain image that the reader is trying to create. It is also just as important to show your child how to invent their own stories too. You can begin by starting off with the first sentence and taking turns to come up with the next line. Not only is this a fun activity to do before bed, but it's something that will help your child develop their imagination further.
Unstructured play
Did you know that it is recommended for a child to take part in twice as much unstructured play as structured play? This is because boredom gives children the space to explore their imagination and self-awareness. Have set times in the day when your child is completing tasks on their own accord. If your child struggles to play without assistance, leave a few toys out that may encourage them to take part in unstructured play.
Turn the screens off
It can be easy to sit your child in front of a screen, especially during times when you are busy and need to get things done without your child interrupting. However, screen time doesn’t actually stimulate the brain as much as creative play does. Whilst some screen time is okay, try your best to sit your child down with some toys or an activity of their choice instead.
