Column: Rodriguez-Roberts On Creativity & More
[Column written by Fiona Rodriguez-Roberts]
When was the last time you stepped outside your comfort zone? Got messy? Tried something new? Felt that mix of nervous energy and self-doubt—and then realized, “I can do this”?
These moments matter. Research shows that trying new things helps build confidence, emotional regulation, and a stronger sense of self. Yet, for many children, these moments are becoming rare.
At Kaleidoscope Arts Foundation, we welcome around 50 children daily and more than 1,000 yearly. We help children push their limits safely and joyfully through art, play and nature. We don’t focus on being “right” or making something “perfect.” We focus on the process: experimenting, solving problems, taking creative risks, and, yes, getting messy. And we do this through play.
Why does this matter? Because we’re seeing more anxiety and burnout in children than ever before. We’re seeing 18-month-olds through teenagers struggling to regulate big feelings. We’re hearing phrases like “I can’t,” “I’m not good at this,” and “It’s not good enough.”
No one deserves to think that way about themselves.
We know that children learn about the world around them when they play. Science tells us that play develops essential cognitive, social, and emotional skills. However, according to a 2022 Omnibus study, the general public in Bermuda places less value on children’s play-based learning and imaginary play than on learning route skills.
At Kaleidoscope, we work to change that narrative.
We offer free access to Kaleidoscope programs to over 600 public school students each year. We run a bursary program so more families can participate in classes, camps, and workshops. We’ve worked with more than 40 teachers, helping them integrate creativity into their classrooms, and 100% of those who completed our survey say they’d recommend our programs to others.
We also hear directly from families about the difference it makes. One parent shared, “I feel that they are giving children the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe environment—allowing them to create their own masterpieces, which they feel proud of!”
This isn’t just about children, though. Adults need this creative space too.
So, we invite you to take the challenge.
Get a little messy. Try something new. Say “yes” to the creative process, even if the outcome isn’t perfect. Help the children in your life do the same—whether at home, in your classroom, or in your community.
At Kaleidoscope, we believe every child deserves access to creative outlets and opportunities. With the help of volunteers, donors, and community support, we’re working to make that belief a reality. If you’d like to join us – by supporting, volunteering, or learning more – visit KAF.bm.
Together, we can make space for children’s creativity, courage, and confidence to blossom.
- Fiona Rodriguez-Roberts, Kaleidoscope Arts Foundation
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