Creative Learning in the Early Years: Teaching creatively and teaching for creativity

Taking a fresh look at the role of creativity within the early years, this accessible guide explores what is meant by creativity and considers how creative skills, behaviours, and thinking can be identified and fostered in the individual child. Underpinned by the latest research and policy, chapters illustrate how creative attitudes can be adopted in all subject areas, and opportunities for creativity maximised.

Creative Learning in the Early Years acknowledges the power of creative processes in helping children reach their full potential in the early years and beyond. Photocopiable work tools enable the reader to plan, observe, assess, and record progress as they develop playful and creative approaches, whilst practical advice and demonstrable examples are easily integrated into existing practice. Topics addressed include:

• recognising and encouraging creative tendencies
• stimulating the child’s imagination
• developing adult creativity and self-awareness
• creating enabling environments and creative spaces
• using documentation and planning to inspire creativity.

An exciting and accessible guide which encourages exploration, experimentation, reflection, and development, Creative Learning in the Early Years will support current and future early years practitioners as they discover the rich opportunities opened by creative practice.

Ruksana Mohammed is Senior Lecturer for PGCE Primary, MA and BA Early Childhood Studies and Programme Leader for Early Years Initial Teacher Training at the University of East London, UK.