To foster creativity, create a culture of exploration

Life Lessons

July 28, 2010

By David Key Lake Oconee Breeze Lake Oconee Breeze Wed Jul 28, 2010, 08:00 AM EDT

LAKE OCONEE — Joyce Brothers, in her book “Homemade,” tells us something important: “The most important way parents can help children be creative is to teach them not to fear failure. To be creative, people need to explore and try new things. Also, children need to learn to tolerate being laughed at. Creative people are willing to risk criticism and aren’t afraid to be different. Trap: Stressing success. Children whose parents have emphasized achievement over exploration are more inclined to try only things they know they do well. These activities make them feel secure in their abilities, but they don’t lead to fulfilling success.”

Something interesting to think about. Wishing you much love and much light.

—The Rev. David W. Key, director of the Baptist Studies Program, is involved in recruitment, admissions, student life, counseling, placement, and development functions for Emory University’s Candler School of Theology. He teaches in the Contextual Education program. He is the founding pastor of the Lake Oconee Community Church at Reynolds Plantation. Contact him at (404) 727-6350 or dkey@emory.edu. His

column appears weekly in this space.

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Life Lessons

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