A child's imagination is born from nothing

When there are fewer toys or moments when children say they're “bored,” adults often feel the urge to step in and give them something. But in reality, those quiet moments are when so much begins to happen inside a child's mind.

In those moments, try saying,“What does this look like to you?”

Even a single question can instantly open up a child's world. There's no need to give a correct answer. In fact, not deciding on a “right” answer is one of the most important ways to nurture imagination. When children feel that their thoughts and feelings are accepted as they are, they gain the reassurance that “it's okay to think this way”

The same goes for drawing. Instead of showing an example, try handing them a blank sheet of paper and crayons. What they draw, which colors they choose, and where they begin are all their own decisions. The result is often a free and expressive piece of artwork that easily goes beyond what adults could imagine.

Pretend play is not just play. As children fully step into their roles, they think about questions like “How does this person feel?” or “What should happen next?” Through play, they naturally develop not only imagination, but also thinking skills and the ability to care about others feelings.

Imagination isn't something children are simply born with. It's something that grows through everyday play and small, ordinary interactions. As adults, perhaps our role isn't to teach everything, but to leave space for a child's world to expand♪

※ Photo and posting permission has been obtained from the parents.

3-year-old's free drawing (right)

6-year-old's free art and craft

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