The impact of societal trends on children’s creative confidence

In a world where societal pressures and expectations can impact children’s creative confidence, new research from the LEGO Group sheds light on the challenges faced by young girls in particular. The study, which surveyed over 60,000 children from 36 countries and regions, revealed some concerning trends regarding girls’ creative confidence.

According to the research, 76 percent of 5-year-old girls are confident in their creativity, showing a wide range of interests and talents in areas like sports, design, engineering, and science. However, as they grow older, this confidence begins to diminish, with 71 percent of girls feeling anxious about sharing their ideas.

The study also highlighted the pressure for perfection that children, especially girls, feel in today’s society. In China, 88 percent of children feel the need to strive for perfection, with 75 percent of parents and 62 percent of children acknowledging that girls face greater expectations than boys.

Parenting expert Jennifer Wallace emphasized the importance of fostering creative confidence in children, stating that fear of failure can hinder their willingness to explore and think outside the box. Jian Lili, founder of MyTherapist, emphasized the role of parents and caregivers in shaping girls’ self-awareness and nurturing their creativity.

As children navigate the challenges of societal expectations and pressures, it is crucial for parents and caregivers to provide them with the support and encouragement they need to express themselves freely and creatively. By making conscious changes in their interactions and communication methods, adults can help children, especially girls, build the creative confidence they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.