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You’re more creative than you think - you just lack confidence

CNN • November 11, 2026 • world

Key Points:

New research published in PLOS One found that adults generate more novel and effective ideas than preschoolers in creative tasks, challenging the common belief that children are inherently more creative.
Preschoolers showed greater confidence, enthusiasm, and enjoyment during creative activities, especially when tasks had no specific goals, while adults experienced more anxiety and preferred clear objectives.
The study involved 92 children and 70 adults completing tasks like drawing mythological creatures and finding unique uses for objects, with adults outperforming children in creativity measures but children reporting higher self-efficacy.
Experts emphasize that children's creativity thrives with autonomy and unstructured play, and that adults often perceive children's creativity as more emotionally expressive rather than more sophisticated.
Encouraging creativity in children involves providing independence, affirming their ideas, and allowing them to explore without fear of judgment, fostering an environment where creative confidence can grow.

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