Many of us often think that we are not good at art and so we refrain from drawing. This isn’t right. Art is for everyone; you don’t need to be good at it. Art is a form of self-expression and is stronger than words. You can simply doodle your thoughts instead of drawing a perfect picture.
Art is encouraged in school for various reasons. It is fun and improves communication skills. It helps in improving motor skills as well. Art is a way of self-expression, and the children can express themselves more comfortably than using words. Today, in schools there are mandatory drawing and music classes. Here are some good art therapy exercises for children.
Postcard activity
Postcard activity is an exercise of self-discovery. If you are faced with a problem, then the postcard will help you to understand the problem better. It will help you to find out the answers to many questions.
This activity can be done alone or as a group session. You need to print out the postcards. One side is writing, and the other side is blank where the children will draw. A situation will be given on one side of the postcard and the participant will be asked to find out how he or she felt and represent their thoughts on the situation at the blank part of the postcard.
Collage
Teens often face difficulties in relationships. They may have to deal with abuse, hatred, and other feelings. They will form a creative collage. To form the collage you need a magazine, newspapers, markers, and colored pencils. You also need cardboard or thick paper.
The participants try to reflect on their core values. They need to find the words to relate to their core values. They can choose color, image, or phrases to form the collage.
Softness project
In this exercise, things with comforting textures are used to explore one’s emotions. Use different fabrics, soft textiles, cardboard, scissors, and glue are needed. You need to start the activity by asking the participants to share their ideas.
Ask them about the sense of touch. Let them touch objects and talk about them. Touch is an important sensory experience and will help teens and children to be creative.
Young children have limited communication skills and they rely on them for expressing themselves. Art can help them process their thoughts clearly and express them. So, these activities can be done in class. Parents can also encourage children to do these simple exercises at home. They will enjoy doing it themselves and as part of a group.