A research study published in 2022 shows how 62 children aged 7–10 years had mild emotional and behavioural difficulties. They were assigned to various types of art therapies, and the results showed how these children expressed more with the help of art. They developed emotional acceptance, looked more confident in their feelings, and built supportive relationships. In short, this study highlighted how art therapy acts as a non-verbal tool for a child’s emotional development and improved mental health in group settings.
In one of our previous blogs, we learned how to become an Art therapist. And in simple words, if I say, art therapy isn’t just making a piece of drawing. It’s more than that. It’s a process in which the therapist understands the process the person is using to make art. From using the colours to creating the art, it helps you in connecting with your emotions, deeper patterns, and helps you in the process of healing. Explore the ICS art therapy course online to learn how it works.
Understanding The Role of Art Therapy In Child Development
Art therapy works best with children because many face challenges in expressing their emotions verbally. If you have watched Taare Zameen Par, you already know how beautifully it worked for Ishaan, a child who has Dyslexia. Art was shown not just as his talent, but also as a journey through which he was able to become more confident in himself, understand his self-worth, improve his academic performance, and achieve recognition for his talents. So that’s how art therapy plays its role in child development.
Through non-verbal expressions, emotional healing and cognitive development can be gained. Now the question is, what kind of children should seek art therapy? It is a must-have therapy for children suffering from trauma history, anxiety, depression, and learning disabilities. But it is also necessary for a child who is facing day-to-day life challenges and stress. For these, parents, teachers, and counsellors can opt for art therapy or can even get certified in art therapy to make the child development process better.
Benefits of Art Therapy In Child Development
Art therapy plays a crucial role in the cognitive, emotional, and physical development of a child. The following are the benefits:
As we discussed above, art therapy helps children express emotions they can’t express in words. By using drawing, feelings can be depicted openly and without fear of being judged. This helps a child in improving emotional resilience, reducing stress and anxiety.
Art therapy can also improve a child’s problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and memory. Activities like designing and painting require focus, planning, and decision-making skills. Such activities can be used for enhancing children’s brain development and building neural connections. Hence, if a child indulges in art therapy, they gain skills like visual analysis and creative thinking, also helping them in their academic performance.
Since art therapy is conducted in group settings, it automatically helps children improve their social skills in a safe and non-judgmental way. Techniques such as collaborative murals and group clay modeling build empathy and cooperation. Children with learning disabilities and neurodevelopmental disorders can be helped by doing non-verbal activities to regulate behaviour.
When a child works on a painting, it improves their motor skills and hand-eye coordination, building precise movements and control. Some dance or movement-based art therapies promote physical improvement and encourage body awareness and coordination between mind, body, and emotions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, art therapy is highly beneficial for children’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development, and is highly recommended for healing kids through creativity and non-verbal processes. If you are a parent, teacher, counsellor, or therapist looking to upgrade your career with Art therapy, the Indian Counselling Services Online Art Therapy Class is perfect for you. It’s certified, practical, fun-loving, and best used with kids.
Useful Links: How to become a art therapist
