Do young children understand the complex mathematics in the petals of a daisy, the Fibonacci sequence in the spiral of a pinecone, the fractal geometry in the leaves of a fern, or the "golden ratio" in the seed pattern of a sunflower? Probably not, but they certainly can observe and recognize the patterns and compare them to similar…

The standby wooden blocks that are prevalent in most high-quality early childhood classrooms are missing from most primary and elementary grades. The goal for block play in early childhood is to support learning in mathematics, science, art, literacy and language arts, physical development, social studies, and social and emotional growth. This…

Young people who attend schools today are likely to hold future jobs that don't yet exist. While generative artificial intelligence (AI) will eventually automate hundreds of millions of today's jobs, people who are able to effectively use AI tools to complement skills like leadership, imagination, and creativity will certainly have an advantage in…

As educators and business people consider what children need to be successful in this rapidly changing society, creative and critical thinking, problem solving, communication, collaboration, and persistence are recognized as the most important skills for success in education and the workforce. Among these, creative thinking is referred to most…

At the start of this new school year, most educators' attention will be split between attending to students' social and developmental well-being and overcoming pandemic-driven lack of engagement in learning. When these two goals are addressed in tandem, students can be exposed to new challenges and experiences. This article explores how a…

Children delight in "giving voice" to their drawings. If provided the opportunity, children can express powerful and imaginative ideas and make meaning through visual and verbal modes. When adults spend time talking with children about their artwork, they see glimpses of imagination at work, as well as effective uses of language. This article will…

This article presents and summarizes recent resources related to pretend play in the early childhood classroom. These include "Contemporary Perspectives on Play in Early Childhood Education" by Olivia N. Sarachoe and Bernard Spodek; "Dramatic Play: Bring It Back" by Tammy Benson; and "The Importance of Being Playful" by Elena Bodrova and Deborah…

Literature can stimulate creativity and imagination necessary for the development of personal awareness and social consciousness. (NH)

Discusses the important role solitary play has in the development of imagination, reflection, and analytical thinking. (ED)

Creative dramatics helps increase and release children's creative potential. This article stresses selection of qualitative materials. (WY)

One of a series of statements focusing on children's basic rights, this brief essay asserts that all children need an environment where the act of imagining and its expression are respected and given visible outlets. (RH)

The author is concerned about the overemphasis on form and techniques in teaching literature, and suggests that teachers encourage the release of emotion and feelings in their students by means of literature and written expression. (SP)

Some thoughts on the problems of supporting creative and imaginative growth in children and adults at school. Two incidents illustrate the discussion. (ED)

Discusses how children can widen their experiences and also acquire a fresh perspective on their everyday experiences through movement and dance. (CM)

Discusses children's imaginary companions as a part of human development that adults should strive to understand. (BJD)