Creative Thinking and Problem Solving for Young Learners

The importance of creativity is widely recognized by parents and educators, but can it be taught? According to Karen Meador, it can - and in her book she shows you how. With practical advice and lessons based on outstanding children’s literature, this work not only creates a better understanding of creativity but also helps educators and parents recognize and nurture creative thinking in young children. Meador discusses components of the creative process - fluency, flexibility, originality, elaboration and problem solving. After presenting valid models of creative thinkers who appear in children’s literature, she offers a variety of classroom activities that help young learners develop their creative processes. Each lesson includes differentiation strategies for personalizing the lesson, including suggestions for older or more able students and younger or less able students. The characteristics of creative people are addressed in a spearate chapter, and yet another chapter addresses synergy in the classroom. Meador also provides lists for further reading and numerous tips for teachers and parents. Creativity is essential to all learning. With its straightforward and upbeat approach, this valuable teaching tool should help educators and parents empower students with important skills that they will use throughout their lives. Its emphasis on literature connections also makes it an excellent resource for school librarians.