Why Kids Stop Creating & How To Heal Your Inner Child
When we’re young, creativity flows naturally. We draw, paint, build, and imagine without hesitation, fueled by a boundless sense of curiosity and play. But as we grow older, something changes. For many of us, the joy of creating begins to fade, replaced by self-doubt, fear of judgment, or the pressures of "growing up." By the time we reach adulthood, our inner child—the one who once freely expressed creativity—often feels lost or silenced.
It’s my belief that reconnecting with your inner child is essential for reigniting your creative spark. In this blog post, I’ll explore why so many of us stop creating as kids and offer practical ways to support healing for your inner child, helping you reclaim the joy of creativity that’s been waiting inside you all along.
Why Do We Stop Creating?
The transition from childhood to adulthood is marked by many changes, both internal and external. Here are some common reasons why we stop creating as kids:
1. Fear of Judgment and Criticism
As children, we create without worrying about what others think. But as we grow older, we become more aware of the opinions of others. This awareness can lead to a fear of judgment or criticism, which can stifle our willingness to express ourselves freely. Negative feedback or harsh criticism—whether from teachers, peers, or even family members—can leave lasting scars that make us hesitant to create.
2. The Pressure to Conform
Society often imposes expectations on us as we grow up—expectations to conform, to focus on “serious” pursuits, and to leave behind the “childish” act of play. Creativity, which once felt like a natural part of life, can become seen as frivolous or unimportant. The pressure to conform to societal norms can lead us to suppress our creative instincts in favor of more “acceptable” activities.
3. The Perfectionism Trap
As we get older, many of us develop perfectionistic tendencies. Many children begin to judge their own work harshly, comparing it to that of others or to some imagined ideal. Classically, older children experience deep frustration when entering the artistic developmental stage marked by the desire to create in a more realist style, especially when lacking instruction to support them through this period. The joy of creating for the sake of creating gets lost in the pursuit of perfection, and it’s at this point that the majority of children stop showing their artwork to others or even stop creating altogether out of fear that their efforts won’t measure up.
4. Focus on Productivity Over Play
Adulthood often brings with it a focus on productivity and efficiency. In a capitalism-driven world that values output over process, play and creativity can seem like luxuries we can’t afford. The demands of work, family, and daily life can push creativity to the sidelines, leading us to forget the simple pleasure of creating just for fun.
5. Trauma or Negative Experiences
For some, the act of creating may be tied to negative experiences or trauma. A hurtful comment, a failure, or a moment of vulnerability that was met with ridicule can create deep wounds that cause us to abandon our creative pursuits. These experiences can make us feel that creating is unsafe or not worth the risk.
Reconnecting with Your Inner Child
The good news is that the creative spirit you had as a child never truly disappears—it just gets buried under layers of doubt, fear, and expectation. By reconnecting with your inner child, you can begin to heal these wounds and rediscover the joy of creating. Here are some ways to start that healing process:
1. Create a Safe Space for Play
Give yourself permission to play and experiment without worrying about the outcome. Set aside time to create just for the sake of creating—whether it’s drawing, painting, writing, or crafting. This isn’t about producing something perfect; it’s about enjoying the process and allowing your inner child to come out and play. Create a physical space in your home where you feel free to make a mess, explore new ideas, and embrace the joy of creativity.
2. Silence the Inner Critic
One of the biggest barriers to reconnecting with your inner child is the inner critic—that voice that tells you your work isn’t good enough, that you’re not talented, or that creating is a waste of time. Practice recognizing this voice for what it is: a product of fear, not truth. When you hear the inner critic, gently challenge it with positive affirmations or simply acknowledge it and then let it go. Remind yourself that creativity is about expression, not perfection.
3. Engage in Activities You Loved as a Child
Think back to the activities you loved as a child—whether it was finger painting, building with blocks, making up stories, or dressing up in costumes. Revisit these activities with a sense of curiosity and openness. You may find that engaging in these playful activities helps you reconnect with your inner child and unlocks new sources of inspiration and joy.
4. Practice Mindfulness and Presence
Mindfulness can be a powerful tool for reconnecting with your inner child. When you create, try to be fully present in the moment, focusing on the sensations, colors, shapes, and textures that you’re working with. Let go of any worries about the past or future, and immerse yourself in the experience of creating. This mindful approach can help quiet your inner critic and open up space for your inner child to express themselves.
5. Surround Yourself with Support
Healing your inner child is a journey that’s easier with support. Surround yourself with people who encourage and uplift you, whether they’re friends, family, or fellow creatives. Share your creative work with those who will appreciate and celebrate it, and seek out communities where creativity is valued and nurtured. A supportive environment can make all the difference in reclaiming your creative spirit.
6. Honor Your Emotions
Creativity is often a powerful way to process and express emotions, especially those tied to your inner child. If there are unresolved feelings from your past—whether related to creativity or other areas of life—allow yourself to explore and express them through your art. Whether it’s joy, sadness, anger, or fear, honoring these emotions can be a key part of healing and reconnecting with your authentic self.
Final Thoughts
Reconnecting with your inner child is not just about reclaiming lost creativity; it’s about embracing the parts of yourself that may have been silenced or overlooked as you grew older. By creating space for play, silencing the inner critic, and honoring your emotions, you can heal the wounds that have held you back and rediscover the joy of creating from a place of freedom and authenticity.
Everyone has a creative spirit within them, waiting to be nurtured and expressed. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or someone who’s just beginning to explore their creative side, we’re here to support you on your journey. Remember, it’s never too late to reconnect with your inner child and rediscover the joy of creativity.
—
Ready to begin your journey of creative healing? Sign up for my email list, where I’ll be sending out info on workshops, resources, and community events designed to support your creative growth and help you reconnect with the joy of creating. Together, let’s celebrate the power of creativity to heal, inspire, and transform.
