Creativity is the process by which original, high-quality, and genuinely significant products are developed. Creativity in young children focuses on the process of developing original ideas—the potential from which products can emerge. Creativity is distinct from intelligence or talent and is critical to complex problem solving. Fostering creative potential in young children provides the developmental pathway to problem solving. Without attention to encouraging fluency and originality in young children, the potential for advanced creative thought and products may be inhibited. For many, defining creativity necessitates three developmental considerations: original (a process seen in young children), high-quality (workable solutions evidenced in older children and adolescence), and genuine significant products (contributions to society as judged by adult societal standards). This entry first explains what distinguishes creativity from ...

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