What is Art Therapy for Children? Answers Delhi's Artist and Teacher Shantala Palat

We are living in a world where everyone is chasing something---success, validation, happiness, or simply the next distraction--yet so few pause to ask why. The world has become too competitive. Gone are the days when children used to play outside to their heart's content and find joy in the simplest things of life. Those were the days untouched by the internet, when connection meant truly being present, not just virtually available.

Now, even childhood has become a race. Every child is expected to excel at everything. It's not about what they want; it's about what society expects from them. We have replaced curiosity with competition, and wonder with worry. To deal with this hectic life, children are often seen attending therapy sessions instead of pursuing their hobbies. There are different kinds of therapies that you must have heard of, such as cognitive therapy, behaviour therapy, psychodynamic therapy, etc. But have you ever heard of Art Therapy?

India’s top contemporary artist, painter and arts teacher, Shantala Palat, introduces her readers to this amazing art therapy that helps today's busy children cope with stress, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm in a creative, non-judgmental way.

Art is nothing but an expression of our emotions, thoughts, beliefs, and experiences. It has the power to heal, inspire, motivate and transform--not only the artist but also the observer. Children are especially receptive to this power of art. Imagine how art can serve as a therapy for children who are struggling emotionally, mentally, or even physically. Art is a medium of expression that allows children to communicate what they often cannot put into words.

Art Therapy combines the creative process of making art with the principles of psychotherapy. The sole purpose is to help children cope with a hectic routine, explore their emotions, develop self-awareness, boost their morale, and enhance social skills.

The various types of art therapies that are commonly used are:

• Drawing is one of the best forms of non-verbal mode of communication for children who find it tough to express themselves clearly. Drawing tools like pencils, crayons, and pastels become their voice, allowing them to share their thoughts freely.

• Clay modelling/ Sculpting helps children to explore their physical and emotional boundaries.

• Collage is a technique by which different materials, such as paper, fabric, photos, and other objects, are assembled and glued together onto a surface to create a completely new, unified composition. This enhances creativity and imagination in children and also develops fine motor skills.

How Does Art Therapy Help Children?

Shantala  Palat shares some point that explains how art therapy could help children.

Free Expression of Emotions - Through art, children can freely express themselves. It seems that the paintbrush or the drawing pencil often finds a direct path to their hearts. Not all children can clearly verbalise their emotions or thoughts clearly, but with colours and shapes, they often reveal their hidden feelings and perspectives. Whether through bold strokes or delicate sketches, children communicate their joys, fears, dreams, and even the experiences they may not fully understand themselves. This creative expression enhances their self-awareness and takes care of their emotional well-being

Builds Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence - Every child is special. Children should be helped to understand that no matter what they do or achieve, they are valuable and worthy of love and respect. The fact that they are loveable, capable, and important just as they are should be reinforced constantly. Art therapy is an innovative way to build self-esteem and confidence in children. Every art project they complete, is a tangible reminder of their achievement and effort. When adults acknowledge and appreciate their effort, children feel encouraged and proud. This sense of recognition builds self-confidence and self-esteem.

Stress buster - Today's kids are more stressed. Whether it is academics or extracurricular activities, children are expected to be at the helm, constantly performing, achieving and excelling. Rest is considered as laziness. Social media too adds additional pressure by encouraging constant comparison. All of these affect the mental well-being of a child. Art acts as a stress buster for children. With each stroke of the brush, their stress and anxiety gently melt away. Unlike grades or scores, a painting or a doodle carries no expectations--it's something that belongs entirely to them.

Improves Fine Motor Skills - Studies reveal that art therapy enhances cognitive skills in children by promoting active thinking and problem-solving skills. Art therapy sessions encourage children to think critically and find solutions. This process stimulates the brain and hence improves cognitive skills like focus, attention, and processing speed. Art classes help children refine their hand-eye coordination and dexterity, thereby improving fine motor skills.

Improves Social Skills - Art activities offer a medium for self-expression through creative exploration. Children often struggle to articulate their thoughts verbally, and engaging in various art activities allows them to communicate feelings, ideas, and experiences in a non-verbal way. Art therapy also helps children develop empathy and teaches them how to manage their behaviour and regulate their emotions.

It is evident from this article that art therapy is a powerful tool to support children's emotional, mental, and social well-being. It allows free expression, builds confidence, reduces stress, improves fine motor and cognitive skills, and enhances social interaction, making it a holistic, creative, and healing experience for every child.