Keep your creativity going even though it may seem stressful as school winds down.

There’s only a few weeks left of school. You’ve made it this far, but you have miles to go before summer. There are projects, papers and exams to finish. You want to end the year well... give it your all. Of course, I could launch into a speech about the Little Blue Engine and how she braved the mountains with her perseverance, prescribing the same remedy for you. But... I won’t.

Here’s my suggestion: take time to play. Yes, that's right: play. You don't have to dig out your old Barbies or Power Rangers to do this. Find something fun, safe and non-electronic to do by yourself or with a group of friends. Go swing on the swings at your neighborhood playground (that's one of my favorite things to do). Fly a kite. Go bowling. Ride your bike. Take a walk. Paint a picture. Sculpt with play-doh. You get the idea. Now use your imagination.

Playing will help you tap into your creativity. If you have been studying diligently, your play breaks give your brain time to work subconsciously. Listen to what you hear as you play. That's why cell phones, TV, movies, iPods are banned from this play time. You need to be able to hear yourself think. As you're roller-blading, you may figure out the solution to the math problem that's been stumping you. The idea for the next section of your research paper may come to you as you are baking a pie from scratch.

Pablo Picasso, the famous Spanish painter, said, "All children are artists. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up." Guard and nurture the artist in you. You don't have to let that part of you go because you're old enough to have a part-time job or you are finally able to drive. The ability to play will help you deal with the stress of your grown-up responsibilities.

About the Author:

Tamara Batarseh, Executive Director of Love In A Big World (LBW), is a singer/songerwriter/performer with over fifteen years of performance experience. She is co-founder of LBW and has been the creator of the organization’s programs and materials. Batarseh has recorded two albums, written LBW’s character education curriculum, trained LBW’s performers, and performed live for thousands of kids.

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