What Is Art Therapy, and How Can It Help Children?
Art therapy is a form of therapy that uses creativity to help people express themselves and deal with difficult emotions. It can be helpful for children because it gives them a way to communicate that they might not be able to do in words.
There are many different art therapy activities that you can do with your child. One popular activity is to have them create a self-portrait. This can help them learn more about themselves and their feelings. Other activities that can be helpful include coloring, drawing, and sculpting.
Preparing to Do Art Therapy with Children
Before starting any art therapy session with kids, it’s important to prepare both yourself and the space. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Make sure the room is set up for creativity. Clear off any unnecessary furniture, and make sure there’s plenty of space for kids to move around.
- Gather all the materials they’ll need. This could include paints, brushes, markers, paper, clay, and any other supplies you might be using.
- Make sure you’re in a good frame of mind. It’s important to be relaxed and patient when working with kids. If you’re feeling stressed out or irritated, it’s best to take a break before continuing.
Reasons Why It’s Beneficial to Use Art Therapy
There are many reasons why it’s beneficial for kids to use art therapy. Some of the reasons are that it can help:
- Develop self-esteem and confidence
- Express feelings and emotions that they might not be able to express in words
- Improve communication skills
- Increase focus and concentration
- Reduce stress and anxiety
Different Activities That Can Be Done in Art Therapy
There are different activities that can be done in art therapy, but one of the most important things is to allow the child to express themselves without judgement.
One popular activity is called ‘mandala drawing’, which is where the child draws a circular design. This can be helpful in promoting focus and concentration.
Another activity that can be done is ‘painting with words’. In this activity, the child paints a picture and then writes a story about it. This can be helpful in promoting creative thinking and self-expression.
yet another activity that can be done is ‘sculpture with clay’. This is where the child makes a sculpture out of clay. This can be helpful in promoting motor skills and creativity.
Benefits of Visual Expression in Art Therapy
There are countless benefits to letting your kids express themselves visually. Art therapy can help your kids to:
- Develop fine motor skills
- Boost self-esteem and confidence
- Enhance problem solving and critical thinking skills
- Encourage creative expression
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Promote emotional well-being
How to Find a NDIS Accredited Art Therapy Course
If you want to find a NDIS accredited art therapy course, you can search for one online or ask your local art therapist for a recommendation. Once you’ve found a few courses that you’re interested in, make sure to read the reviews and compare the price and duration of the course.
When you’re ready to choose a course, keep in mind that there are two types of art therapy courses: those that focus on theory and those that focus on practical application. If you’re not sure which type of course is right for you, it might be helpful to speak with a qualified art therapist who can help you decide.
Conclusion
So, these are some ideas to get you started with art therapy. Remember, you can use any activity with any child, if you are both enjoying yourselves. If you need more ideas, or if you have any questions, be sure to talk to your therapist or reach out to us for more information.
