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Children and adolescents, being relatively new to life…

“Children and adolescents, being relatively new to life, are naturally creative because they haven't been brainwashed, so to speak, by the conventional attitudes of society. Consequently, students are always coming up with novel images, words, and actions that my delight, enlighten, or inspire…” quote by Thomas Armstrong
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““Children and adolescents, being relatively new to life, are naturally creative because they haven't been brainwashed, so to speak, by the conventional attitudes of society. Consequently, students are always coming up with novel images, words, and actions that my delight, enlighten, or inspire adults…Creativity has not been the subject of intense focus, extensive research, or high levels of funding in American education.””

Thomas Armstrong

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Young people are naturally creative because they are less constrained by societal norms, yet education underfunds creativity research.

In simple terms: Youth creativity thrives without societal conditioning.

Key Takeaway

Invest in nurturing creative potential in schools.

Themes

education creativity youth

Mood

optimistic concerned

Type

advocacy strategic

When to use this quote

  • classroom projects
  • after‑school programs
  • grant proposals
  • teacher training
  • curriculum design

Key Concepts

developmental psychology educational policy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can schools prioritize creative learning?
  • What policies could increase research on youth creativity?
A Different Perspective

Funding constraints and systemic inertia limit implementation.

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