Unlocking Children's Creativity through Movement and Music

When we think of movement and music in early childhood, it is perhaps the image of dancing and singing children that first comes to mind. And, because dancing and singing are associated with art forms, we naturally assume that any activities involving movement and music will, of course, promote creativity. But the truth is, movement and music activities that ask the children to merely imitate the parent or teacher will do little to foster creativity.

This describe a place in children's lives and education. Children need to learn to follow directions, to physically replicate what the eyes see, and to take part in activities promoting a sense of belonging. But creativity is not a natural outcome of such activities-just as creativity is not the domain of artist alone. Indeed, we need creativity in business, industry, science, education, and life itself. Every time we whip up a glorious meal from a refrigerator full of leftovers, we're employing creativity!