The imagination is a wonderful thing: not only does it help with emotions, to convey feelings and deal with adult-like situations it also shows kids that they can be anything or anyone they want in the world and to relax and be themselves.
Your little one’s imagination is something that needs to be cherished and nurtured, so here are five handy tips to encourage it even more.
Get down with your child and play pretend - this is the best and most effective way to encourage them to use their imagination, especially if they are struggling to think of ideas on their own. While they should be the ones to expand the story you can get them started by, say, asking a question about something or even setting a scene.
Don’t overload their schedule
While children need and thrive off structure they also need time in their week for free play where they have to resort to their imagination to keep them entertained. Have at least one or two days where they are free to do whatever they want – play with their toys, draw or even do a jigsaw.
Choose their toys wisely
Avoid giving your children toys that already have a story or a background as they are likely to just follow that storyline and not make up their own play. Things like Lego, arts and crafts, dolls, and animals require the use of the imagination to get enjoyment out of them so stock pile these in your little one's room.
Pictureless and wordless books
Books are a really great way to get your little one to use their imagination. Ones without pictures encourage them to visualise the characters or location themselves while books without words mean your youngster needs to use the pictures to make up their own story.
Turn off the TV
While the television can be a great source of information and learning, it can also cause your little one to become lazy when it comes to using their imagination. If they are consuming too much telly they are likely to just use characters from their favourite show or repeat scenarios that they have seen on a particular episode when it comes to play.
