An Invitation to Create
One of the ways we encourage curiosity at the Clubhouse is by giving ample open ended opportunities for children to explore, question, and discover. Curiosity is a child’s internal desire to learn what motivates them and seek out new experiences, which leads to greater success in school over the long term. Curious children not only ask questions, but they seek the answers and stay engaged with their learning. We provide opportunities for these experiences to happen all day, everyday.
One such intentional opportunity is our art area. We set up an open ended, creative play space which we call an Invitation to Create. This is a space which is ideal for introducing a new material, technique, or activity to the children in an age appropriate way that they can explore with minimal adult facilitation.
In the beginning of the year, our invitations to create begin very simple with the purpose of slowly introducing children to materials. We begin with items that the children are familiar with (glue, pom poms, tissue paper, buttons etc) and over time, we add new materials. This allows them to explore materials without being restricted by fine motor abilities. As children become more comfortable with materials, we continue to add new items to deepen the curiosity and learning which occurs through open ended, creative play. As the year progresses, children in our community begin to create their own invitations, often entering our art closet and choosing the materials they deem necessary for their play. This independence amongst our children allows them to create new experiences, curiosity and learning that is all child led.
How to set up an Invitation to Create
Set up a designated space that is clear except for intentional materials.
Have the art invitation set up ahead of time. Plan for your materials and be ready for the “creation” part of your day.
Keep the materials and set up simple. A table with 1-3 different art materials on a tray or in basic containers is perfect. Our children currently love paper and tape or glue .
Allow the children to be curious and create. This encourages problem solving and critical thinking skills. Only step in if they ask you for help or guidance.
Keep it open ended. Allow your child to explore the material and when they are ready to move on, then move on.
Raw materials are excellent additions to an invitation to create space. We have baskets of materials available to children that support and challenge all levels of development. Thick cardboard, thin cardboard, tubes of various lengths, plastic containers, bubble wrap, etc. Basic supplies of glue, painters tape or washi tape, scissors, and paper are often needed. Hang on to random bits of materials, they might very well make there way into your invitation to create space.