In Search of Creativity

Understanding what creativity may look like in a classroom may not be easy as it may seem. Creativity could mean different things to different people. It could be a talent, such as painting or sketching or even be a different way of thinking. Regardless of a child’s experience with creativity, it is important to note that creativity is a disposition we can nurture and cultivate. Therefore, creativity can be taught. Hence, we could begin thinking about how a child is creative rather than if there is a possibility of him being creative or not. (Cropley, 2001).

According to school technology consultant Doug Johnson (2012), creativity isn’t always about art; problem-solvers, writers even excuse makers can demonstrate creativity. Â Creativity can also be simply figuring out a way of accomplishing a task in a better way. Or dealing effectively with a problem – mechanical or human. Therefore, creativity can be demonstrated in a number of different ways and by multiple people:

• Musicians creating, performing and conducting music
• Writers and storytellers
• Problem-solvers
• Graphic artists through their drawing, painting, designing, sculpting, and even photography
• Athletes and dancers
• Humourists/ comedians
• Team-builders and collaborators
• Inventors and systems innovators
• Leaders who organize, motivate, and inspire
• And even excuse-makers

What Does Creativity Look Like in the Early Years?

If creativity is associated with curiosity, experimentation, wonder about life, expressing one’s self, learning new skills and refining others, or coming up with new and interesting ways of looking at the world, then one can imagine how the early years can be an ideal time for this disposition to unfold and blossom! Think about the impact you as teachers and parents can have in a young child’s life if, early on, you begin to nurture their natural curiosity and foster their love for fun and learning!

In this resource we will briefly explore the elements of a creative classroom, what they could be and how we can foster them in our environments.

Skills You Gain From Elements of Creative Classroom:

Skill 1 : what are the elements of a creative classroom?