As parents we want the best for our children and for the to do their best. But sometimes we are looking at their art or creativity through our own lens rather than their perspective. Creativity at a child’s age is unencumbered by fears and insecurities. They are imaginative and free spirits until the first negative comment pops into their head.
Most parents don’t mean to control their child’s creativity — they’re simply trying to help. We want to encourage effort, avoid frustration, and guide our kids toward “doing it right.” But creativity doesn’t grow best under instructions and corrections. It grows when a child feels safe to explore, experiment, and express what’s inside them. When we learn how to guide creativity without controlling it, art time becomes less stressful and more meaningful — for both parent and child.
If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “Try it this way…” or “Maybe make it look more like this,” you’re not alone. Most of us want to help our children succeed, especially when they’re creating something for God. But too much direction can quietly take ownership away from the child. Guiding creativity without controlling it allows children to build confidence, trust their ideas, and discover that creativity is a gift from God — not a test they need to pass.
God created every child with creativity woven into who they are — not as something to perfect, but something to explore. When we step into art time with the goal of controlling outcomes, we can unintentionally dim that gift. Learning how to guide a child’s creativity without controlling it helps us protect their confidence, nurture their faith, and create space for meaningful connection. Creativity isn’t about getting it “right” — it’s about helping children see that God delights in how He made them.
Instead of telling your child how to create, invite them to explore their own ideas.
Try saying:
“What do you want to try first?”
“Which colors feel right to you?”
This keeps the child in charge of their creative process while still feeling supported.
Children gain confidence when their effort is noticed, not evaluated.
Don’t ask, “What is that?” ….Yeah, don’t ask that. It’s an immediate creative crusher. Instead say:
Focus on what you see:
“You worked carefully on that.”
“I see you experimenting with colors.”
This helps children learn that creativity isn’t about approval — it’s about expression.
Questions invite reflection without taking ownership away.
Try:
“Can you tell me about this part?”
“What does this remind you of?”
These conversations often lead naturally into faith-based reflection without pressure.
If a skill needs instruction, teach it briefly before art time begins.
Demonstrate once.
Then step back and let your child create freely.
This keeps creativity from turning into a performance or test.
Children learn more from watching than listening.
Let them see you make mistakes.
Say out loud:
“That didn’t turn out how I planned, but I can try again.”
This teaches resilience, humility, and confidence — all rooted in grace.
Creativity is one way children reflect the Creator. When we guide without controlling, we create space for them to discover how God has uniquely shaped them.
Sometimes parents fear the art will become “just a craft,” and the spiritual meaning will get lost. But the truth is kids enjoy simplicity and don’t appreciate how we adults complicate things for them. The creative process creates memories and they connect how they feel with the artistic expression. You can still present structure within your Bible Art time. Talk about God naturally while you create.
If you’ve felt any of these fears, you are in good company.
Every parent I talk to shares at least one of these struggles—and often several.
But you don’t have to walk this journey alone.
Through simple creative practices, Bible-connected art lessons, and encouraging resources, you can give your children a faith they see, feel, and remember. Engage every learning style and make the Bible connect in every way possible.
You are doing better than you think. And I’m here to help you every step of the way.
Help children understand and remember God’s Word through creative, hands-on art projects. These lessons connect Scripture to visual reminders, helping truth sink deeper into their hearts.
These are symbolic, meaningful art activities that focus on faith, reflection, and spiritual growth. They’re simple, visual, and perfect for families, classrooms, or personal quiet moments with kids.
Examples include:
Visual reminders of God’s promises
Faith-building projects
Scripture-based creative prompts
Identity in Christ projects
Includes:
Flowers
Trees
Insects
Space
Landscapes
If you’re ready for simple, meaningful Bible + art ideas every month, come join us inside the Remember’s Creative Library.
We would love to tell you more about becoming a ReMEMBERer.
Access our online Bible studies and resources anytime and anywhere.
Our desire is sharing God’s Word and love through creative resources for all learning styles.