Does your kid play with dolls, GI Joes, or Legos? If the answer is “no,” they may not grow up to be a successful adult. That’s because they’re missing out on the social and intellectual skills that come from using their imagination. According to The New York Times, psychologists warn that today’s kids aren’t using their imaginations enough. Instead, they play games in which the story is created for them – like video games. All they have to do is follow along with a story and actions dictated by a videogame developer.

The type of play that builds the most social and intellectual skills needed to succeed comes from games that a child creates. Like kids who say – “Okay, you’re a horse and I’m a turtle and the den is a pond. You have to help me get across it.” That’s something that comes strictly from a kid’s mind. Experts also say that children also learn to control their impulses through games like Simon Says. They learn to solve problems, think creatively and work as a team when they dig together in a sandbox or build a fort with sofa cushions. So, how can you spark your kid’s creative streak?

• Let your house get messy. Psychologists say if your kids are focused on keeping the kitchen table too clean, their imagination won’t run wild.
• Also, let your kids make up their own rules. Psychologists say don’t become the ref – or the Rules Police. Otherwise, you won’t give kids a chance to invent new rules or even new spin-off new games.

There’s even a movement to bring back creative play called Play For Tomorrow. They staged an event, called the Ultimate Block Party, this past October in Central Park. It featured games like I Spy, mounds of Play-Doh, sidewalk chalk, building blocks, and puzzles. However, you don’t need to wait for an event. You can create your own Ultimate Block Party – and help your kids develop the social and intellectual skills they need to succeed. If you want to know more, try UltimateBlockParty.com.