What happens when you don’t show them what to make?

Start with a small invitation

Place a shallow tray within your child’s reach. Add a few large pieces of paper, a soft cloth and a chunky crayon suitable for their age. A small selection gives them somewhere to begin, without too much to take in.

Let the first idea be theirs

They might draw. They might wrap the crayon in the cloth or arrange everything in a row. Give yourself a moment before showing them what to do. You may discover that they already have a plan.

Be nearby, without taking over

Sit beside them with your own piece of paper. If they invite you in, join them. Try noticing aloud — “You’ve folded that into a tiny square” — rather than asking what they’re making.

Let it stay unfinished

There doesn’t have to be something to display at the end. Folding, covering, moving and starting again can be the whole activity. If something holds their interest, leave it ready to return to.

Try this today: Put three simple, safe materials on a tray at your child’s height. Stay nearby and see what they reach for first — before offering an idea of your own.