Encouraging Your 12-Year-Old's Creative Interests Without Worries

When your 12-year-old is showing a proclivity towards creative endeavors like stage acting and karaoke, the best thing you can do is encourage and support them. This simple act can help your child appreciate and thrive in their passions. It's important to provide them with the right tools and environment to flourish, rather than interfering or worrying unduly about potential outcomes.

Providing Tools and Support

Just as I, with my background as a retired opera singer and actor, can attest, all you need to do is provide the tools for your child to explore their interests. Tools are neutral; they are neither good nor bad. For instance, if your son enjoys reading plays or even writing one, you should be excited for him! Discouraging him would be the last thing you would want to do. After all, how do we know he isn't the next Tennessee Williams or Terence Rattigan?

Embracing Diversity and Individuality

As someone who has lived a life that included interacting with a diverse range of people, including those who might be perceived as 'effete' or 'gay', I realize that embracing your son's unique interests and personality is crucial. My grandmother introduced me to classical music, and my grandfather provided me with an environment where I could pursue my interests without hesitation. Similarly, allowing your child to experience a wide range of creative activities can help them grow and develop in ways you couldn't predict.

Understanding and Supporting Creatives

It's important to come to terms with the idea that creative endeavors can be beneficial. If you have preconceived notions or fears about your child pursuing certain activities, it can adversely affect how you support them. Showing your child a path and allowing them to decide if they want to follow it based on their interests is key.

Furthermore, your concerns about your child potentially becoming 'effete' or 'fruity' are reflective of a broader societal issue. These terms are subjective and can be derogatory. Creativity comes in many forms, and it is essential to encourage your child to express themselves as individuals.

Encouraging Broad Interests

Exposing your son to a variety of creative pursuits such as music, drama, lighting, stagecraft, writing, and the arts in general can broaden their horizons. You can participate in these activities with them during your downtime. For instance, this summer they might be in the choir, and next semester they could be repairing guitars and amps for their band. They could even teach others how to repair stage equipment or move pianos. The following summer, they might be acting in a Shakespeare drama and learning sword fighting.

Embrace the journey of seeing your child grow and develop new friendships. These friends will need to be responsible and ready for all the activities, teaching them valuable lessons in teamwork and acceptance. This process will help them become well-rounded individuals.

Key Takeaways

Provide tools and support for your child's creative endeavors. Embrace diversity and individuality, acknowledging that creative passions can lead to success and fulfillment. Encourage broad interests and participation in various creative activities. Let your child lead, showing them the path and supporting their choices.

By following these guidelines, you can help your 12-year-old thrive in their creative pursuits, ensuring they grow into confident and well-rounded individuals.