"Child-development experts are recognizing the importance of imagination and the role it plays in understanding reality. Imagination is necessary for learning about people and events we don't directly experience, such as history or events on the other side of the world. For young kids, it allows them to ponder the future, such as what they want to do when they grow up" (Wall Street Journal, 12/2009, http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204844504577100713531520358.html?mod=business_newsreel).
The article also states that children who are more creative and imaginative are able to solve problems with their imagination and have a greater social understanding and taking the perspective of others.
Yesterday, when talking to my oldest (who is 4 years old) about planets in our solar system and looking them up in the encyclopedia, he began relating to me the history of Star Blazers and how the planet Gamilon, a world beyond Earth's Solar System, declared war on all of Earth. The nations of Earth fought against the Gamilons, but one by one, Earth's fleets were defeated. When the nations of Earth refused to surrender, Gamilon began bombarding Earth with Planet Bombs.
I had to stop him because I realized he thought all that was true. When I informed him that Star Blazers was a pretend story, he was stunned. "Really? Oh..... really??" Thanks to his Daddy, he began watching Star Blazers at Nana and Poppy's house during our Thanksgiving trip.
My children have no lack of imagination, especially my oldest. He is teaching my youngest how to have one as well. They are constantly playing superheroes and, just this morning, were singing "Row Row Row Your Boat" while swaying together in a diaper box (which has also doubled for a fort).
Regardless of what "the scientists" say and their reasons for encouraging this development, I am pleased when my children show creativity. It does cause raised eyebrows from some and a couple of socially interactive issues when my oldest goes to school, but in the end, I am certain he will be the one to come out on top with his being well-adjusted and pursuing whatever avenues in life he wishes.
Until next time, appreciate and encourage your children to be who they are.
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