Since posting the video on my last entry about schools killing creativity, I've been thinking a lot about fostering creativity in my kids. And I'm thinking of it in context of a note a friend recently sent our homeschool group about 7 different types of intelligence.

To begin with, I don't equate creativity with the Arts. It's a mistake to think that we are only creative when we are writing, dancing, drawing, or making music. In fact, I believe it is even possible to be an un-creative artist - it's possible to be technically good but not really creative. If you watch American Idol, you can easily see what I'm talking about - creativity is what sets apart the truly brilliant musicians from the simply talented singers. But creativity can come out in many areas of life. My husband is an aerospace engineer, and he needs to be creative in finding solutions to design problems all the time. His creativity is what makes him a brilliant and highly valued engineer in his field.

Sir Ken Robinson said he believes schools should be teaching creativity as an essential skill, equal in importance to reading, math & science. I agree. (Unfortunately, most American schools are teaching test-taking as the skill of primary importance today, but that's another post altogether.) So how do we foster creativity in our children? I don't claim to have the answers, but I do have a few thoughts that have been rumbling around in my head for the last few days.

Part of the answer is allowing our children to be who God made them to be. This is where the dominant intelligence fits in. Here's what my friend shared with me:

The Seven Types of Intelligence

 Psychologist Howard Gardner has identified the following distinct types of intelligence in his Multiple Intelligences Theory ("MI Theory") in the book "Frames of Mind." They are listed here with respect to gifted / talented children.

1. Linguistic

Children with this kind of intelligence enjoy writing, reading, telling stories or doing crossword puzzles.

2. Logical-Mathematical

Children with lots of logical intelligence are interested in patterns, categories and relationships. They are drawn to arithmetic problems, strategy games and experiments.

3. Bodily-Kinesthetic

These kids process knowledge through bodily sensations. They are often athletic, dancers or good at crafts such as sewing or woodworking.

4. Spatial

These children think in images and pictures. They may be fascinated with mazes or jigsaw puzzles, or spend free time drawing, building with Leggos or daydreaming.

5. Musical

Musical children are always singing or drumming to themselves. They are usually quite aware of sounds others may miss. These kids are often discriminating listeners.

6. Interpersonal

Children who are leaders among their peers, who are good at communicating and who seem to understand others' feelings and motives possess interpersonal intelligence.

7. Intrapersonal

These children may be shy. They are very aware of their own feelings and are self-motivated.

When I first read this list, I immediately recognized both of my children: one has the "musical" intelligence and the other has the "interpersonal" intelligence. If I can figure out how to engage and encourage them in those areas, I believe it will give them the freedom to be creative.

Another part of the answer to fostering creativity is limiting "media" input (computer, video games, TV, DVDs, etc.). This is kind of a tough one in my family because my kids appreciate their afternoon "down" time where they can watch a movie. We have instituted limits on computer time, and I have noticed that when the computer and TV are off, my children have a great time in creative free play. They go outside and dig in the garden or make a zoo with all their stuffed animals or set the Playmobil pirates at war against the knights. But they need free time in order to be able to play like that.

The thing I'm struggling most with, particularly with my son, is how to encourage him to express his creativity in other areas (besides play). And maybe I need to start with that interpersonal intelligence strength of his. It's a really different way to approach his life training, and it's going to take some creativity on my part as well! But I'm trusting that as I pray and seek wisdom, the Lord will teach me and show me what I need for him.

What about you? Have you found ways to foster creativity in your homeschooling? Please share your thoughts!