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28 - Play and Creativity

from Collaborative Creativity

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  12 April 2019

By
Sandra W. Russ  and
Ellen A. Doernberg
Edited by
James C. Kaufman  and
Robert J. Sternberg
James C. Kaufman
Affiliation:
University of Connecticut
Robert J. Sternberg
Affiliation:
Cornell University, New York
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Summary

Pretend play is a creative act. There are many similarities between the components of a creative act and pretend play. This chapter reviews the similarities in these processes and the research evidence for the link between play and creativity. There are many different profiles of pretend play abilities in children, just as there are many profiles of creative abilities in adults. Children express and practice with these different processes in play, according to their interests and talents. An important question is whether play facilitates the development of these creative processes or simply reflects them. We review the current evidence, discuss methodological issues, and make suggestions for future research. As we develop pretend play intervention protocols that enhance creativity, it is crucial that we disseminate information to parents, schools, and childcare providers. Making these protocols, games, or apps easily available and easy to integrate into daily life at home and school is important.
Type
Chapter
Information
The Cambridge Handbook of Creativity , pp. 607 - 622
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2019

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