Stimulating Preschoolers' Creative Imagination through Hands-on Practice Activities

Abstract

The research aims to develop the creative imagination of pre-school children, using different working techniques in practical activities. An experimental, formative methodology was developed. Twenty-nine preschool children of the "Nicolae Iorga" Secondary School, Bacău, in the 5-6 years age group, namely Group B "Sunbeam", participated in the research. To stimulate creative imagination, specific working techniques for practice, and hands-on activities were systematically used, and modern strategies based on diverse techniques and materials were introduced into the children's work. The research results revealed that hands-on practice activities allow for the selection of activity organization forms that foster learning through discovery. This type of learning, while requiring independent effort, motivates participation and stimulates the creativity of pre-schoolers. This is because they are engaged in developing their knowledge. A creative motivation for knowledge and self-discovery has been observed in preschoolers, which supports the acquisition and development of personality traits specific to creative people: self-confidence, independent thinking, and sensitivity to problems.