365 Days to Creativity: Fun Activities to Develop Creative Thinking Skills All Year Long

by Jennifer Bowers

163 pages, Paperback

Published December 5, 2025

About the author

Jennifer Bowers has been working in public education for over thirty years, the majority of which have been in gifted education. She holds a Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and an add-on certification in Gifted Education. She has published numerous curriculum units in her school system and has instructed gifted endorsement classes for teachers. She lives in Georgia with her three children and their cats. Her hope in writing books for children is to highlight (in a fun way) the unique abilities and the unique challenges that children may face. She is extremely grateful for the opportunity to collaborate on projects with her daughter, Abby, as her illustrator. She has also published a personal memoir about her family's journey during her husband's cancer diagnosis to bring comfort to those going through a similar situation.

Reviews

[Cary Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an awesome resource for classrooms and families. As a gifted teacher with extensive training and experience fostering creativity, it's a great blend of research-based practices and engaging activities. Some of my favorite weekly themes are Cookies, Dreams, Music, and Outer Space. The activities aren’t just crafts; rather, they’re clever challenges that build real creative thinking skills like fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration. For example, kids are tasked with designing a dream vacation or creating a Cubist family masterpiece. Each prompt naturally incorporates imagination and problem-solving.

All activities are highly engaging, screen-free, and easy to set up. Since you don't need fancy or expensive supplies (most items you have around the house or in your classroom), the content is very accessible. The prompts work wonderfully for classroom centers, enrichment groups, quick bell-ringers, and home-based activities, and they align with the nationally recognized gifted standards. They encourage collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity in ways that feel fresh and engaging.

As a parent and a teacher, I'm really enjoying incorporating these activities at home and in my classroom.

[Shalini · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is more than a collection of ideas—it is a toolkit for sharper, more creative thinking. By focusing on bilateral thinking, the author shows how even everyday things/situations can become gateways to deeper insight.

What makes the book truly engaging is its use of practical strategies and each technique is woven into the text in a way that feels natural, inspiring students to stretch their imagination and challenge their assumptions.

Beyond individual growth, the book also emphasizes the importance of working together as a family unit. In today’s screen‑obsessed era, where digital distractions often isolate rather than connect, this book encourages families to engage collectively in thought‑provoking exercises.

If you are looking for a book that not only teaches but empowers you to think differently while bringing families closer together, this is a must‑read.

[Mackenzie Monroe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is exactly what families and teachers need right now. It’s filled with creative, technology-free ideas that make it easy for kids and adults to reconnect, think imaginatively, and spend meaningful time together. Every activity feels thoughtful, engaging, and doable—no screens required.
As a teacher (and someone who loves bringing people together), I really appreciate how the book encourages collaboration, problem-solving, and genuine fun. It’s the kind of resource that helps you slow down, be present, and enjoy one another’s company. I highly recommend it for classrooms, homes, or anyone looking to spark creativity and connection.

[Dorian Gower · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Curriculum Support Teacher, I help to guide many families in ways to support their children at home. One of the areas that parents ask for support in frequently is creativity. Due to rigorous pacing and standards, this is an area that is sometimes difficult to incorporate in the classroom and at home. This book is the perfect solution! It offers so many activities that can develop creativity skills while also fostering quality family time. It can be difficult to find time together as a family with busy schedules and this book can help you to make that time. I highly recommend this book!

[Samantha Crump · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engaging, Versatile, and Conversation-Friendly!
This resource book is a lifesaver for parents and teachers alike. The directions are clear and simple, and most activities require little to no prep—perfect for busy schedules. I love the variety: analogies, drawing prompts, role-play, and more. The coding system makes it easy to pick activities at a glance, and they’re adaptable for a wide range of ages (a few even challenged me as an adult!). Ideal for home, classroom, road trips, or school breaks. Best of all, it sparks meaningful conversations with kids. Highly recommend!

[Jayna Lobl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the wide range of topics covered in this book - no child could ever get bored! The varied activities make for interesting discussions each day. As a teacher, I see a lot of kids with tons of academic knowledge but who cannot make it into gifted programs because they are lacking the creative thinking aspects. I love how this book encourages children to think outside the box! Activities are easy and straightforward, and most require little prep. Great for adults and children alike - this is a must read if you are wanting to explore your creative side!

[Alyssa Koerner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an excellent resource for families! It not only encourages creativity but also provides a clear, well-structured pacing guide that makes the process simple and enjoyable. With its practical approach and easy-to-follow steps, families can confidently nurture imagination and creative expression together.

[Maddie Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been using this book with my kids for a few weeks now, and we love it! The activities are well-suited for different age groups, and they give us some dedicated times together every day. We have had some really interesting conversations, and we can feel our creativity growing daily. We highly recommend it!

[Joseph · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is great for the whole family! It gets the kids thinking and helps make lasting family memories. I would definitely recommend this book.