Have you noticed how naturally creative and self-expressive your kids are? Until they hit five or six, most kids have not learned to judge themselves or filter their instincts. They are driven by curiosity, willing to take risks and not afraid to be themselves.

You were once the same!

Being a parent is the perfect excuse to get back in touch with your own inner kid. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Stretch your perception of creativity. Most of us think of creative people as visual artists, prolific writers or performers. But the truth is, we are all naturally creative. You might express yourself in the way you dress, through your witty conversation, the beauty of your flower garden or the way you give a massage! What is important is that you express your unique self and trust your instincts.

Make friends with your inner critic. We all have that little voice inside that whispers limiting thoughts like you are not an artist, that looks terrible, or who do you think you are? Recognize your inner critic for what it is: It’s the part of you that is scared you are not good enough and wants to keep you safe from being judged or hurt. By acknowledging the inner critic (without giving it reign to rule your actions) you are taking away its power to hold you back. When your inner critic arises, just say Thanks for your opinion. And then go ahead and do it!

Take a risk and try something new. Sign up for that pottery class you have been dreaming about, rearrange your house, paint with pastels or take martial arts. Approach it playfully (like your kids would) and enjoy being a beginner. You don’t have to be perfect!

Make regular time to nurture yourself. Through taking time for yourself, you are staying connected to your inner life and personal identity. As a parent who spends much of your time caring for your family, it can be so easy to forget your own needs. And knowing yourself can be key to staying in touch with your creative flow. It also recharges you for the many tasks of parenting.

Start today. By flexing your creative side, you are modeling healthy self-expression for your kids. The less you judge yourself (and them) the more they are able to hold on to that instinctual sense of making art out of everything. The world is a better place when we are all playfully creating!