Two Simple Ways to Encourage Imagination and Have Fun!

Posted on June 13, 2014

“If you will not imagine yourself as other than what you are, then you will remain as you are.”  Neville Goddard, The Power of Awareness 

Children have the most amazing imaginations. Whether they’re dreaming about what they’d like to be when they grow up or creating elaborate worlds for make-believe play, their vision is unlimited. In recent years, studies have shown that flights of fantasy have tangible, real-world benefits. Not only does imagination allow us to understand things we haven’t directly experienced, but it also gives us a way to project the future. Remember, everything real was once an idea. Using our imagination for play inspires growth and satisfies the soul.

So how can we encourage our children’s imagination, dreams, and creativity (and perhaps, in the process, get back in touch with dreams of our own)?

1) Create dream boards or vision boards: Give your children a place to put images of the things they love. They could use drawing or cutouts from magazines; older children might choose digital images. You can even make this a family activity, and make one for yourself along with them.

2) When playing with your children, take a cue from improv comedians and always say, “Yes.” Your child is a giant fish-eating dragon? Well, of course he or she is. The corollary to this rule is to say, “Yes…and.” You add something to the scenario the child has created: For example, say, “I’m getting a net to help you catch fish, dragon!” Contribute and encourage their imagination, whatever form it takes.

Our parentologist, Roma Khetarpal, has dedicated a section to this important topic in her upcoming book, The “Perfect” Parent. As she notes, “It’s a parent’s job to add fuel to that fire of our children’s passions, to encourage them and support them and tell them that they can be whomever and whatever they aspire to be.” Please join us on Facebook and Twitter to share your imaginative ideas!