Unit 082
1.1 - For children to be able to learn, they need to be open to receiving ideas, processes, sensations and feelings. They need to be allowed to respond to human experiences in ways that are not inhibited through being told that this or that respond is wrong or insufficient. They need to know that their responses to experiences can come through thought, talk, action and activity but have the time and space to reflect on their responses, also some of the time in cooperation with others. In these situations, children will be creative in thought and action e.g. young children co-operate when planning and building models during construction activities, which may involve sharing ideas and materials as well as taking turns with equipment.
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework highlights the importance of creativity and creative learning in the early years of education. One of the four principles that underpin the EYFS framework relates to learning and development. It emphasises the importance of creativity and critical thinking in all aspects of children’s experience, and pronounces creative development as an area of learning in its own right.
The differences between creative learning and creativity are:
Creative learning
Creative learning among education professionals is widely understood to be characterised by:
• Questioning and challenging
• Making connections and seeing relationships
• Envisaging what might be
• Exploring ideas and keeping options open
• Reflecting critically on ideas, actions and outcomes.
Creative learning is about helping children develop imaginative thinking through an exploration of materials or objects and problem-solving skills. It is also about giving children opportunities to make connections between different areas and to relate to them. It is also about how children are actively involved in their own learning and ability to make choices and decisions. This can be achieved through providing a creative...