ABSTRACT

This chapter focuses on the notion of creativity and what it means for children in their early years. Creativity is an important part of intelligence, but the scientific community has struggled to clearly define it. Play is the cornerstone of all future development. When one consider some of the characteristics that make up a creative mind, curiosity usually comes first. Without it, children would be unable and perhaps even unwilling to explore their surroundings and what their bodies can do. Imagination involves thinking and involves bringing about something that did not exist or was not known before, so it had to be imagined first. This can imply that the imagination first needs to be stimulated to lead to creativity. Having a strong sense of agency is important for young children as they develop their identity. When children have agency and the right environment, they can act independently of others appropriate for their age.