Creativity

"Never underestimate the creative intelligence of a child." -Dr. Maria Montessori

Children are so good about using their imaginations. In their play, in the story-telling, in their Lego building, and in their writing. If left to it, they create their own games and often their own, little worlds. Their uninhibited nature leads to so many wonderful things, in and outside of the classroom. Dr. Montessori believed children are able to teach themselves, if given the right environment. Yes, this means Montessori materials and classrooms full of multi-aged children. But there is more to it. Children mostly need some space to breath and the freedom to explore. Its okay for parents to send kids off to play or work, without much direction. But, sometimes they need help from us to find this independence. Montessori teachers and parents alike, encourage children to make choices for themselves. Children don't all know how to ask with words, but will relish in this independence once it has been found. 

While living in Tucson, we saw rainbows all the time. We were talking about rainbows and how they form. We looked at pictures, read some books and watched a couple videos to help us understand. My idea was to draw or paint them. But, my middle child, who is very tactile, asked if she could make a rainbow. I asked for some ideas and she ran around the house "thinking". When she came back she asked if she could use food. Sure, why not, I replied. And we looked around the kitchen for supplies. She decided she could bring her rainbow to life using mostly fruit, and some marshmallows. What a great opportunity I had in front of me. To allow my child to use her imagination- and with very little assistance needed. We reviewed how to hold the knife when cutting, and off she went. She was focused, and happy, and satisfied with her efforts. Her idea brought to life. It was tangible. It was concrete. And, it was delicious! But it also allowed her creativity to come through. Her personality. Her spirit. And that is worth its weight in gold.