Whether they have a penchant for edgy styles like Rihanna’s or prefer more classic prints, kids will often develop clear preferences in fashion as early as childhood. Here are some tips to help your kids find their swag and make it their own. Learn what they are and how to use them.
Seek Out Inspiration
It’s no secret that children are naturally creative. However, that creativity can often wane over time. One of the best ways to reignite it is by seeking out inspiration. It can include reading fashion blogs that inspire them or looking at Janie & Jack. They can also find inspiration by asking their friends what they’re working on or getting ideas from other creative outlets.
It’s important to remember that finding inspiration is a process and can sometimes be sporadic. For example, what inspires today may not encourage the kids tomorrow, especially if your kids are focused on meeting the needs of their family or work. So they need to be patient and open to whatever comes their way. It can help to put a picture of someone inspirational on their desk or around the house to remind them of their goals and dreams.
Ask Questions
Asking questions is one of the best ways to encourage children to think. Questions that can’t be answered with yes or no help kids develop their language, communication and critical thinking skills. When your child grabs her sister’s doll away from her or knocks over a lamp, asking her what she was thinking instead of punishing her helps her learn to consider behaviors before doing them. It also teaches her more about good behavior than punishment, which often only teaches kids to hide or avoid the issue in the future. As your kids get older, you can challenge them to answer “why” questions more and more. It will give them a strong sense of imagination and curiosity and build confidence in their ability to use words.
Watch Style Shows
You’ve probably seen a few photos floating around the Internet of toddlers striking sassy poses and looking like mini fashion models. Whether you think it’s cool, cute, bratty or parental pride gone wild, this trend shows that kids have a natural affinity for style and want to look their best. Watching fashion shows or browsing style blogs can help them learn about what’s hot and how to assemble outfits from various sources. They may even discover that a pair of jeans bought at the thrift shop can be cut into shorts or that a plain sweater from the clearance rack can be given new life as a dress.
Create a Style Board
Kids are naturally creative but may need some help finding inspiration. That’s where style boards can come in handy. Whether your child wants to rock edgy, bohemian styles like Rihanna or prefers classic floral prints and feminine silhouettes like the First Lady, creating a mood board will provide them with clear direction and reassurance that their style is unique. Use tools to explore different color palettes, or embed animated GIFs or YouTube videos for a more multimedia approach.
Get Organized
Getting organized is a great way to help your kids develop their style. If they find something they want to keep, teach them that it needs a home from the moment it comes into their possession. They should ask themselves while they’re still in the store where they plan to put it and make a note of that location. It will prevent them from bringing their stuff back and forth to you in their room and may even encourage them to purchase fewer items! It will also teach them to be responsible for their things. It is a lesson they will benefit from all their life!