Practical Insights from Senior Teacher Farid Zaiter on Unlocking Your Child’s Imagination
In today’s fast-changing world, creativity isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s essential. But how do we help our kids become confident, curious thinkers ready for whatever comes next?
Farid Zaiter, Senior Teacher at British Council Singapore, has spent years helping young learners discover their creative spark.
We sat down for an interview with him, where he shared simple, practical ways parents can support this journey. From language play and storytelling to embracing bilingualism and using technology wisely, here’s what you need to know.
Playful Language and Storytelling: Where Creativity Takes Off
Farid believes creativity isn’t just a skill to teach – it’s something every child can unlock with the right environment. “In our classrooms, language play and storytelling transform shy kids into brave explorers,” he says.
Imagine a group of kids giggling as they create silly rhyming poems about animals. Even quieter children start experimenting with new words and sentences because they feel safe to take risks. That’s the magic of play.
Storytelling goes beyond words. Farid recalls a project where children reimagined classic tales from different cultures. They didn’t just speak English – they owned it, sharing personal stories and emotions through their characters.
When kids get to ask their own questions and lead their learning, their faces light up with excitement. “That’s when creativity and confidence really grow,” Farid explains.
Let Your Child’s Voice Shine
Creative self-expression is a powerful confidence builder. Farid remembers a quiet preschooler who created a superhero with the power to read minds. Over time, that child stood proudly in front of the class, telling his story with joy and even responding to classmates’ ideas.
Stories like this remind us that creativity helps children find their voice – in language and in life.
These creative moments also teach empathy and problem-solving. “Creativity isn’t an extra – it’s the heart of learning,” Farid says.
How Bilingualism Boosts Brain Power and Cultural Smarts
If your family speaks more than one language, that’s fantastic! Farid explains that bilingual kids don’t just learn two languages – their brains get a workout, helping them think flexibly and solve problems more easily.
Bilingual children switch between languages and cultures daily, which builds curiosity, tolerance, and empathy. These skills are invaluable in our global world.
Farid’s experience in Algeria, Bahrain, and China shows that blending languages and cultures in learning makes it richer and more meaningful. In Singapore, many children move between English and their heritage languages, creating a unique and dynamic identity.
Smart Use of Tech: Helping Kids Learn Their Way
Technology can be a powerful learning buddy – but only when it supports, not replaces, real interaction.
Farid uses tools like iPads for kids to record their storytelling, helping them hear how much they improve. AI story apps let children bring their ideas to life with pictures and narration, a big confidence boost for those less sure about writing.
“The goal is to use tech to make learning personal and fun, while teachers keep the human connection strong,” Farid emphasizes.
Easy Ways Parents Can Spark Creativity at Home
You don’t need fancy toys or expensive kits to fuel creativity. Farid encourages parents to make home a curiosity-friendly zone where questions and effort are celebrated.
Try this: ask your child “What if?” before bedtime stories and let them lead the adventure. Use everyday items – cardboard boxes, spoons, or old clothes – as props for imaginative play. These moments build problem-solving and language skills – without screens.
And don’t forget to show curiosity yourself! Saying things like “I wonder why birds sing in the morning” teaches your child that asking questions is a superpower.
When it comes to screen time, balance is key. Use apps for English learning, but always chat about what your child’s watching or playing. Then, connect it to real-world fun, like drawing or acting out a story.
Singapore’s Bright Future for Creative Learning
Singapore already has a strong education foundation and impressive creativity scores among students. Farid sees exciting opportunities for more student-led projects where kids ask their own questions and teachers explore alongside them.
“Creativity is a mindset, not just a subject,” he says. “With the right mix of structure and freedom, Singapore can raise not only smart learners, but innovative and compassionate ones too.”
Your Role in Nurturing Creativity
Farid’s insights remind us that creativity grows when children feel safe to play, explore, and express themselves – both in school and at home. By embracing language play, celebrating bilingualism, using technology thoughtfully, and fostering curiosity daily, parents can help their children build confidence and a love for learning.
In a world that’s always changing, these creative skills will prepare your child for whatever adventures lie ahead!
By Joanne Heng.
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