Schools today can look like something we might have seen on the 1960s cartoon show “The Jetsons.” These days, students of all ages spend hours on electronics. Many children are not exposed to the opportunity to develop imagination and creativity on their own. Creating solutions and drawing conclusions has been found to aid young children in building the ability to problem-solve and resolve situations as they become older.

During what we might consider a “normal school day,” students are given time to expand their brain pathways during recess, music, art or science labs. Over the past years, however, many of these opportunities have disappeared due to budget cuts and the use of online education. With online education increasing, students do not have as many opportunities for experiences and social interactions with others. These activities allow children to problem-solve, create things they have never thought about and learn to interact and share with others to complete a task.

The beauty of fostering creativity and imagination in children is that it doesn’t require much. You don’t need a fancy kit or a high-tech toy — just a simple, everyday item such as a big box and masking tape will work. The goal is to stimulate their creative thinking and encourage them to think outside the box.

But it does require your time. So often, we assume a small group of children can work together on a project. Usually, it turns into arguments, and adults can become frustrated. Children don’t come packaged with the ability to work cooperatively. It comes with the guidance and support of engaged adults.

Children learn to gain information and solve problems with or without adult support. However, an argument or disagreement may arise that requires adult intervention. They still need to develop those problem-solving skills and they will with adult support. Adult guidance is not just helpful, it’s required for them to succeed until you are sure they fully understand what is expected. You can step back and see how things go before you step away. This is a time to guide them through a process that may require some support.

Helping children be creative and use their imagination doesn’t just happen. It has to be taught, and they have to experience it. It may be called “free time” but it is not free for adults. Children still have to be taught how to interact and use their imagination. Otherwise, free play may become a “rough-and-tumble” event and someone may get hurt. You have to step back and remember the objective and provide support so they can build their skill set of working or playing with others.

Have you experienced spending big dollars on a dream gift only to have your child be more interested in the big box? Their need to express their creativity and imagination by turning a box into a spaceship expands their cognitive understanding and ability to apply the information they have gained during their lives. Giving children freedom and a chance to create and fail allows them to develop the process of problem-solving for situations they may face in the world around them. This is only accomplished if they have had previous experiences using their knowledge to create and work with others.

Adults must help children take these processes to a higher level by asking them, “Where are you going with your spaceship?” or “How does your tent keep the rain out?” Your job then involves going along with whatever they might respond with, reasonable or not. It also is important not to point out when there is no possible way their idea will work. In time, they will come to that conclusion as they better understand and apply the information they gain in their next adventure. Allow them to experience, discover and adjust as they learn and grow.

It does not have to be a cardboard box. Grab some blankets and let the tent construction begin. Ask the kids, “How could we make a tent?” Struggling, trying and failing are part of the process and it’s OK. Failing and dealing with problems are part of the process of learning. Your job is to ask questions and allow children to discover and problem-solve.

Let the adventures begin! Set out some boxes and blankets and watch their imaginations run wild. It’s a joy to see them fully engaged and enjoying the process. Who knows, the next big invention may be born in your living room.