Strategies To Increase Creativity in the Classroom

In many ways, students are scholars; they develop skills in different subjects but also struggle to find a way to think outside of the box for subjects like math or art. With various innovative ways to get kids to think more differently than others, teachers need to nurture those sparks of inspiration through different strategies to increase creativity in the classroom.

Treat Recess as Field Work

Recess is the one area where children don’t have to think about their homework or what they learned in history in the morning. However, the exciting thing about recess is that it actually promotes independent learning.

From settling arguments about who goes down the slide first to following the path of an army of ants into a grassy field, children end up learning a lot more than teachers think. Children learn how to use their senses outside while also learning about their surroundings.

If you happen to have a small science experiment students can do outside during their break time, consider asking them to find small things outside; that way, they can discuss their observations. For instance, the change in temperature, how long it takes them to run before getting tired, and more.

Utilizing recess can increase success in the classroom, especially looking for ways to improve creative thinking.

Implement Creativity in More Subjects

Art and language arts aren’t the only areas that need creative thinking. Other places like science and math rely heavily on creative thinking—this is where thinking outside of the box on certain concepts becomes useful.

For instance, during math class, you can draft out graphs for students to use to help them solve math problems in a new way or have them solve puzzles while doing so. When you place the arts in other subjects, you begin to see a rise in confidence and more students succeeding.

Let Students Be the Teacher

Sometimes, students become bored because they already know and understand a concept. In other words, they’re fast learners. So, take some time out of the week and look at your strongest students in every subject.

For example, if a student is really good at multiplying by a bigger number, allow them to help you teach it to other students, and then do this once a week so students can learn how to develop their own ways of getting to solutions.

When creating an inspiring atmosphere, it’s essential to take a step back and ask the students how they want to foster their creativity. When they give suggestions, write them down, and use the best choices.

While using one of these strategies for increasing creativity in the classroom, you help students come out of their shells a little more. Creativity comes with a rewarding journey of success for both students and teachers.