What approach can early elementary teachers take to best support highly creative students?

Providing frequent opportunities for highly creative students to experiment with materials and ideas is essential for nurturing their creativity and critical thinking skills. This approach allows these students to explore, innovate, and express themselves through hands-on learning experiences. By giving them the freedom to engage with various materials and concepts, teachers can foster an environment that promotes exploration and self-directed learning, which is crucial for creative development.

Encouraging experimentation supports the idea that mistakes are part of the learning process, helping students to learn resilience and adaptability. This process not only enhances their creative abilities but also builds confidence in their skills and ideas.

In contrast, adhering strictly to routines, limiting the time for creative activities, and focusing solely on academic achievements can stifle creativity. Routines may restrict the exploration needed for creative thought, while limiting creative time undermines the value of creative expression. Solely emphasizing academic success can pressure students, which might inhibit risk-taking and experimentation, both of which are key to fostering a creative mindset. By prioritizing opportunities for experimentation, teachers can create a more engaging and dynamic learning environment for highly creative students.