An important part of children's cognitive development is created by having them use their imaginations. Before the Xbox and Wii were invented and before TV and computers were invented, children had to use their imaginations rather than relying on those types of stimulus.
Studies show that children who have imaginary friends are more likely to be more creative and better able to solve problems. Instead of critisizing them for it, encourage it.
As it turns out, the things that you are able to do for free with your children are also some of the best for them, like engaging them in creativity. A box of crayons, some paper, and a little coaching from you will go a long way. Don't judge so quickly. Just like creativity in adults, having a lot of unfiltered ideas is better than holding back on your freedom of expression. Give a kid some art supplies and you will be amazed at what they will come up with.
Common household items and things pulled out of the closet can turn into anything your child can dream up in their imagination. You should give children the freedom to create their own stories and then listen to what they have to say. This helps to strengthen their communication skills.
Fostering imagination is important because children need to learn how to solve their own problems instead of having mom or dad always solve them for them. They need to strengthen those problem solving skills, which will serve them well their whole lives. By letting children solve their own problems, they are less likely to grow up to have to depend on others. They will be able to solve their own problems. They are less likely to become passive and let others dictate to them. They are better able to think through different scenarios and outcomes.
If you want to help your children improve their reading skills you can read out loud to them. This will help them in the future. It could be educational and entertaining. Children can improve their vocabulary by listening to their parents read out loud to them. In addition to reading to them, encourage them to read aloud and also to make up their own stories.
To prepare for life in the real world, children should practice in the imaginary one to better help them cope. Putting them into "what if" situations gives them the tools they will need when they go into the real world and are faced with real world problems to solve.
Copyright (c) 2011 Julie Austin
Julie Austin is an award-winning inventor/entrepreneur with a product called swiggies, wrist water bottles. She's also the author of the book "The Money Garden: How to Plant the Seeds for a Lifetime of Income". http://www.createforcash.com
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