Chaplain's Chat

Hi everyone, 

One week to go until school holidays! I know I'm not the only one who is excited to take a well-needed break from school. 

Often when I have a young person in my office, I offer them my selection of paint, textas, colouring books, pencils and other artistic supplies. Many children find focusing on an artistic process a great way to stop and relax. But why does art work so well?

Studies have shown that art stimulates both sides of the brain, it involves thinking and creativity. Art can be a way for children to express themselves and give a voice to feelings they may not be able to communicate yet. Fostering creativity in children helps them develop mentally, socially and emotionally and even teach analysis and problem-solving. 

When being creative with your child, it is best to allow them to experiment, don’t give too much direction and instead encourage them to mix colours or try different brush strokes. 

It can also help to ask lots of questions about their process – ask them to tell you about their creation and if they had fun. 

I often use art to help children with things like emotions, relaxation, gratitude, loss and resilience. Some activities and exercises I use include: 

• Draw or paint your emotions

• Design a card for someone you need to talk to (you don’t have to give it to them)
   
• Paint to music
   
• Make a scribble drawing
   
• Try drawing with your eyes closed
   
• Design a picture of your perfect day

My challenge over the school holidays is to try and create something using art to reflect some of the emotions you have been feeling lately.