creativity

Creativity. It’s inherent in our nature. We were made in God’s image—God the Creator who fashioned the heavens and the earth and everything in them. He paints a new sunset every evening and a new sunrise every morning. He is the ultimate artist.

It’s no wonder, then, that so many children love to create. Crafts and drawing and painting and scrapbooking—you name it, if it involves glitter and a paintbrush, girls are all over it. As parents we have a remarkable opportunity to nurture our kids’ God-given interest in creativity. Here are a few crucial ingredients in the process.

Give them the time. Between school, soccer, piano lessons, homework, drama club, science fairs and more, our kids have very little time to just be kids. One of the greatest gifts you can give your child is the freedom to create. This means allowing time in her schedule to dabble in drawing or crafting or DIY room décor. Empower her with the mental space to try new projects, make mistakes, and discover creative solutions.

Give them the tools. Art equipment comes in every form these days, from good old paper and pens to drawing apps to summer art camps and more. Don’t be afraid to invest in these tools. Most parents wouldn’t hesitate to buy math workbooks or foreign language apps, right? Likewise, we need to view art as an investment in our children’s development. It’s not just a fringe priority; on the contrary, creative expression is an activity tuned to God’s heart.

Give them the encouragement. Finally, remember to root for your young artist. Our girls today are faced with enough discouragements at school, from friends, in the media and at the mall. Let home be the place where they hear “you can do it” and “I admire your creativity.” Encouragement is more than a boost of confidence. It’s an act of faith.

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

New! The Promises For You Coloring Devotional… perfect for encouraging your daughter’s creativity! Take time to enjoy God’s Word and color images from his beautiful world. In this 60-day coloring devotional filled with unique illustrations and patterns, you will read about God’s unchanging promises through NIrV Bible verses, paired with detailed line art. Each page is printed on high-quality, thick paper stock that won’t bleed through. And when you’re finished coloring with markers, metallic pens, or colored pencils, you will have a chance to reflect and journal about each promise from Scripture, and find inspiration for every day. Perfect for girls 8-12.