When it comes to curiosity and creative problem solving, kids have the process down pat. They are expert problem solvers. (Only a kid can transform an over-sized box into a lunar lander!) Having this imagination around the office can be pretty handy. But how can you make this happen without breaking child labor laws or getting into trouble with school truancy officers? Bring your Inner Child to work...

Okay... you'll play along? Now you want to know how you're supposed to find this so-called inner child?

At the Idea Sandbox Institute we’ve discovered the process to reaching your Inner Child in three simple steps...

• Step 1: Determine the age of your Inner Child.
  
• Step 2: Behave like that Inner Child.
  
• Step 3: Don’t let Them out of your sight.

Step 2 - Behave like that Inner Child
Now that you know how old your Inner Child is… You need to begin thinking that age. Do you remember how free from responsibility you were? How bold you were? As adults, stress and self-consciousness quash creativity.

Recall the kinds of questions you asked at 5, 8, or 10 years old? You were filled with wonder, exploration, and curiosity! You constantly asked… What if? I don’t get it. I wonder why…? Why not? How come? Ask those questions again... today.

Play! Keep a stash of Play-Doh or Silly Putty in your purse or desktop drawer. (The scent of these alone will transport you instantly to childhood). Get away from your work for 15 minutes. Have recess. Play outside.

Step 3 - Don’t let Them out of your sight
Hang out with your Inner Child. Go to lunch together. Take them to your next meeting with wide-eyed curiosity. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Find the fun.

Your Inner Child plays well at home, too. Your significant other will be pleasantly surprised when you bring home finger painting supplies to create original works of art for the fridge instead of watching another episode of reality TV.

Get big ideas being little...
That’s all there is to it. Start now. This instant. You’re no longer 42, you’re now 6. Birth certificate says you’re 27? Naw, be 9 years old. Cut the crust off of your peanut butter and jelly sandwich and get big ideas being little!

More ideas...

Watch Tom Hanks in "Big"

Rent or buy the Tom Hanks movie “Big.” One of the best scenes in that movie is when his ‘grown up’ character, Josh Baskin, is working in the boardroom of the toy company.

He's listening to the sales pitch for a new line of toys. The pitch includes demographics, focus group data, and statistics proving the proposed toy will sell well among the target audience. Since Josh really IS a child he reacts with his gut. He raises his hand and states...“I don’t get it?”

When was the last time you asked a question when you felt what was being presented made you uncomfortable on the inside?

Play with Inner Child Age-Appropriate Toys

Visit your local toy store and check out the toys for your Inner Child's age. Get something to play with for your desk at work or home. Lincoln Logs. Legos. There are wooden blocks designed in classic styles of architecture... with these on your desk, folks will simply think you're into architecture.

Get Your Own Sandbox

Dig this great sand! It's sold online by MindWare It has a wax-like coating that allows it to be moldable and never dry out. There is a set here at the Idea Sandbox Institute and it has provided hours of entertainment. A great activity to mess with when you're on the phone.

Eat a Fluffernutter
If you're from New England in the US, you'll know what Marshmallow Fluff is... Fluff is a brand of marshmallow creme... A Fluffernutter is a peanut butter and Marshmallow Fluff sandwich. It's one of those things that may sound gross until you've tried it... Once you've tried it... You'll love it. There's a bill to make it the official sandwich of Massachusetts.

Often you can find Fluff in the kosher section of your grocery store or you can order it online at a site called The Candy Store.