Children can express their negative emotions and feelings through art therapy. It can help a child's mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Art therapy allows children to process the things that have happened to them and helps reduce stress and anxiety as they work through these challenges. The development of mental, emotional, and physical well-being of a child can be enhanced through art therapy since it is a safe space for kids to express themselves.
Besides colouring, art therapy can include activities such as,
writing stories,
choreographing dances,
writing and performing dramas.
It is a medium through which kids can express suppressed emotions that they may not be aware of. They may have difficulty expressing their emotions in words, but the same feelings can be conveyed through these creative mediums.
Art therapy can help children cope with a major life event such as a serious medical illness, separation of parents, moving, loss of a loved one, or bullying. It can help children who struggle with low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and learning disabilities. As well, it has been shown to help children with behavioural issues and developmental disorders.
Benefits of Art Therapy:
Helps to Release suppressed emotions
Self-awareness can be improved
Stress, anxiety, and depression can be reduced
Help a child deal with feelings associated with sickness, trauma, and grief
Enhances self-esteem
Allow children to see problems from a different perspective
Improve problem-solving skills
While art therapy sessions are conducted by a trained therapist, engaging in art activities with your child is a great way to connect with your child. Here are a few ideas
1. Finger Painting: A satisfying sensory activity where they can trace unique designs in the paper.
2. Crayon Art: Drawing with crayons is a good way to begin. It fosters fine motor skill development. This activity can give them joy and enhance their confidence.
3. Clay or Play Dough: Children adore this goofy soft mass that can be shaped in a variety of ways. It is calming and entertaining for the children to knead and shape the dough.
4.Colouring. By colouring, children can control their actions. Make easy pictures first and then increase the complexity. Through colouring and drawing, they can express their joy and sorrow to the world.
5. Mask Making: Mask-making is a fun activity for children to engage in exploring their different emotions. Creating a mask provides a means to explore hidden aspects of themselves.
6. Making Postcards: This activity allows children to express their feelings and thoughts about someone or something that's caused them pain. Children can use this activity to become aware of what they feel and also to release the pain they are holding without fear of confrontation.
It doesn't matter if you're looking for ways to help your child cope with a major life event or just want to build a better connection with them, these activities will definitely help.
Resources:
https://www.amazon.ca/Strengthening-Emotional-through-Parent-Child-Dyad-Therapy/dp/1843107139
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