Inspiring kids to create things

Imagination and creativity are found in every child. Though it cannot be taught, it can definitely be developed, says Maryam Salahuddin, who does this through the use of fun-filled follow-up activities for children.

The owner of Majlis library, Maryam comes up with different ideas every weekend and uses any material found in the environment as tools for children to explore and learn, instead of using specific toys.

She is organising a cooking demonstration for children at the Landmark Hotel, Deira, on November 16, where a vegetarian and a non-vegetarian dish will be prepared and demonstrated. A bus will be available to pick up the children at 9.30am and drop them back by 12.00 noon.

Refreshments will be provided to the children at the hotel. By doing so, Maryam wants them to understand and honour the work of others.
Earlier, she had organised a cake demonstration, drama workshop, visit to a gold factory, science experiments and story-telling sessions for children. She says that if you give children paints and brush, you can see themes and pictures emerging from their creative mind.

Another activity on November 23 is to make a giant plate by using different kind of leaves.
These activities create a sense of belonging and a feeling of family, so much so that even mothers get involved with their children in the programmes. Children interested in the cooking demonstration can give in their names by November 14.