​How to get children more creative with technology

        
Most children nowadays will pick up technology in a heartbeat – but instead of using it for creative purposes, they’ll just play games, watch videos or even, from a young age, use social media channels such as Facebook or Twitter. While this is okay in small doses, children need to learn how to get the very best out of their technology.
That’s why we recommend that from a young age you teach your children how to be creative with technology. There are many ways to do so, and here’s a list to help inspire you.

1. Use specific games to harbor creativity

Okay – we know we said kids spend too much time playing games. Hear us out though. We’re not talking about regular video games, but games created especially for bringing creativity out in children. With games such as Minecraft, GarageBand and Little Big Planet, players are required to create things. This teaches them a number of things, from design skills to the idea of taking ownership of a project.
Minecraft has been used in schools all around the world to teach children complex topics such as logic gates and engineering. If it’s good enough for schools, then it’s certainly going to help your children.

1. Get them using creative software

There’s an abundance of software on the market to allow your children to express themselves. You can make your own wallpaper with the kids for use as a homescreen, or download classic paint software on your computer. Have them draw pictures of their home, of mummy and daddy, or your pet. Guide them to use the mouse to bring their imagination to life. All of these are valuable skills which they can use in the future.
With devices such as the Surface Pro or the Apple Pro, you can purchase integrated smart pens which allow you to create freeform art directly on the screen. While we don’t think there’s anything wrong with the regular old pen and paper, kids nowadays don’t see it this way, and so using tablets with smart pens is a great alternative to inspire them further.

1. Get them to create music

We mentioned GarageBand earlier, but we thought it was worth a mention on its own. The popular music making software is a great way to get kids into creating music. Essentially, it allows you to replicate various instruments on screen – so you can create a drum beat on the drums, a melody on the guitar, or a bassline with a bass guitar. You can create simple beats, or more complex symphonies with a grand variety of string instruments.
The great thing is there are various GarageBand tutorials out there. So, take a look beforehand, learn the basics and then grab your kids. Being creative isn’t all about art – it can involve music as well. So, get out there, and make some music with the kids!
So – there you have it! Three tips on how to be more creative with the kids. Get out there, grab those devices, and make something worth remembering.