THE CREATIVITY CRISIS

 The Creativity Crisis refers to a measurable drop in creative thinking abilities among children and young adults, first identified by researcher Dr. Kyung Hee Kim in 2010. Her study of 300,000 creativity test scores (the Torrents Test of Creative Thinking, also known as TTCT) revealed a steady decline in divergent thinking, imagination, and originality—especially since the 1990s.

In short:

• Kids today are scoring lower on creativity tests than previous generations.
• This decline starts as early as kindergarten with the largest decline seen from first to third grade.

Why is Creativity Declining?

• Standardized Testing: Schools focus heavily on test performance, leaving little room for imaginative, open-ended exploration.
• Over-scheduling: Kids today often lack unstructured time to think, play,  and create freely.
• Screen Time: Passive screen use often replaces hands-on, creative play
• Reduced Arts Programs: Budget cuts in schools frequently target art, music, and creative electives.

Why should it concern parents & communities?

Creativity is not just for artists—it’s a critical life and career skill. When creativity declines, so does a child's ability to:

• Solve problems from multiple angles
• Think independently and critically
• Adapt to change
• Express themselves with confidence
• Build resilience and emotional intelligence

These are the same skills today's employers are demanding in the workplace. The World Economic Forum lists creative thinking as one of the top skills needed for jobs in 2025 and beyond.  

for educational reform but until we here to bridge that gap to creativity.