When choosing a nanny, creativity may not feature in your list of criteria, but perhaps it should. The Montessori philosophy specifically links creativity and problem solving and encourages children to be self-motivating creatively. It’s interesting to note that Maria Montessori doesn’t support the display of children’s art …so those blobby drawings pinned under fridge magnets are a no-no for her followers!
Creativity is important in other ways too. As Montessori observed it helps children solve problems. Develops the sorting and selecting functions that lead to higher cognitive development. Examples are mixing paint colours to create the chosen one. And/or (for older children) working out how to build a ‘tent’or ‘castle’out of nursery furniture and toys.
Nanny and creativity – the best childcare solution
An experienced nanny knows that children have the ability to concentrate for remarkably long periods when involved in a creative project that appeals to them. She will also know that even during such a period of creativity and focused attention. Children require gentle guidance and a change in tempo if they are not to become temporarily bored or frustrated. This is why a well-trained nanny has the capacity to break up a creative endeavour so that the child remains fresh and interested. A refreshment break, a diversion of energy into a supplementary task. Or the offer of assistance when things are getting tiring or complicated can help a child develop that most vital skill. The ability to pace themselves.
Choosing a nanny to help your child’s creativity
At The Elite Nanny Company we make it a priority to focus on child development when we interview candidates for our nanny vacancies. We recognise that parents may not have time, or may not feel equipped, to investigate a nanny’s ability to boost child creativity. So we include this in our rigorous candidate selection process. As a result, we have a clear picture of where each of our nanny candidates excels in creativity. We have, for example. Montessori trained nannies, Norland nannies and nannies who are qualified to teach gymnastics.
Helping children become more creative
For an active child with a strong drive for physical activity. A nanny who can channel the desire to run, jump and swing into constructive problem solving will help that child to make the adjustment to formal schooling. For a quiet, introspective child. A nanny who can draw out the imagination and encourage creative pursuits. Such as painting, storytelling and empathetic role-play will build relationship skills whilst recognising the role of more sedate pursuits.
Because we have a comprehensive picture of each family. And nearly two decades experience in placing the right nanny for you. We think we’re ideally placed to shortlist nannies with the right kind of creativity to help your child grow and succeed.