Helping creativity flourish in children

[17 September 2006 - Chandigargh Express News Service - India] CREATIVITY is a crucial human ability, which must be identified and encouraged, especially among children. It is for this purpose that the National Bal Shree Scheme, a unique endeavour of the National Bal Bhavan to honour the most creative children in India, was started. The zonal finals of the scheme would be held at Bal Bhavan, Sector 23 on Sunday and Monday. Children in the age group of 9-16 would participate in four streams — creative arts, creative scientific innovation, creative writing and creative performance. Addressing mediapersons at Press Club today, Amita Shaw, director, National Bal Bhavan, New Delhi, said the scheme was aimed at nurturing and encouraging creative children. Stating that creative people were essential for the development of a country, she said, ‘‘If creativity in children is not recognised at an early age, it can take a negative turn after some time.’’ More