Gifts to encourage creativity in kids of all ages!

Creativity has been proven to increase problem solving skills and cognitive function, improve mental health and memory, reduce stress, boost neuroplasticity, and even improve the immune system and overall health!

Everyone can benefit from regularly engaging in some type of creative activity, especially considering that it’s easier than ever before to not be creative at all (I’m not completely blaming screens but… okay, maybe I am). Our children, as they’re developing, not only benefit from but need the neurological stimulation that comes from creativity.

Kids are naturally extremely creative and, given normal circumstances, will thrive creatively without any fancy equipment at all. But our society doesn’t always give normal circumstances- common, perhaps, but not normal- with all the early and excessive screen use as well as early and excessive academic pressure, and because of this, our kids need a little help sometimes.

When given opportunities to be creative, kids will most likely run with them. Setting out craft supplies or building blocks or dominoes or sewing supplies on the table where the kids see them is often enough for them to go to work without any actual prompting. Another way to draw them in is to begin an activity yourself- start knitting, baking muffins, making stuffed animals tell jokes, putting together a flower arrangement- kids will jump right in without missing a beat.

These gift ideas are thoughtfully chosen to encourage everyday creativity in children (and parents may find themselves wanting to join in as well!)

I haven’t divided any of the items by age because all children are different. A certain six year old may be ready to try wood carving, while some fifteen year old may get really into building with blocks! You know your child better than the “age suggestion people”, so consider what would be engaging, challenging and safe for your child!