As a child psychologist, one of the things I often remind parents is how vital it is to let children experiment, explore, and be creative—yes, even when it means a messy kitchen or a garden full of “potions!” I heard a delightful story, at least to me, about potions being made by a pair of young brothers and the mess that followed. (For real, I enjoyed the story provided by the parents who were sitting in my office.) The mom said she knew that something was up because her boys were just too quiet, and then …the sound of water sloshing was the giveaway that something was definitely going on, lol. *Can you hear me giggling?*
Whether children are mixing dirt, water, and leaves to create their “magic brew” or painting with their fingers, these activities are more than just play—they’re building blocks for learning.
You see, when children are allowed to experiment, like mixing their own potions or creating concoctions, they’re using critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. They are learning cause and effect, testing out new ideas, and—perhaps most importantly—feeling a sense of control over their world. It’s an opportunity for them to ask “What happens if…?” and figure things out on their own, which fosters independence and confidence.
Creativity also helps children express their emotions and thoughts in ways that words sometimes can’t especially given their age. So, the next time your child asks to mix ingredients or come up with a new creation, embrace the mess! Let them experiment with their ideas—it’s how their imagination and problem-solving skills flourish. So, go ahead and encourage those potion-mixing sessions.
As I wrapped up my time with these parents, I reminded them that letting their boys experiment is part of the learning journey and it will help them learn and grow in ways that will last a lifetime- and it is just plain fun!!!
Happy Parenting!
xoxo,
Dr. Marnee