Creativity is one of the most powerful tools children have to express themselves. However, on many occasions, they do not find the space or the appropriate resources to develop their self-expression. So how can self-expression be encouraged through children’s art? Here is the answer.
CHILDREN WITH DIFFICULTIES IN EXPRESSING THEMSELVES
Many children have great emotional and creative richness, but find it difficult to express it in words. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, art can help children develop effective communication and emotional expression skills.
In a world where verbal communication is predominant, children who cannot express their feelings in traditional ways may feel frustrated or misunderstood. This difficulty can affect their self-esteem, social relationships and even their emotional development.
THE IMPORTANCE OF ADDRESSING THIS SITUATION
When a child does not find an appropriate way to communicate what they feel or think, they may develop shyness, anxiety or lack of self-confidence. This not only impacts on their emotional well-being. It also impacts on their ability to learn and their personal development. Lack of self-expression can also limit their creativity and their ability to solve problems in original ways.
ART AS A MEANS OF SELF-EXPRESSION
Children’s art is an essential tool for fostering self-expression. Research by the National Endowment for the Arts has shown that participation in art activities from an early age contributes to the development of creativity, confidence and emotional intelligence. It’s not just about teaching children to paint or model, but about giving them a space where they can express their emotions and thoughts freely.
STRATEGIES TO ENCOURAGE SELF-EXPRESSION THROUGH ART
- Offer a variety of materials. From watercolours and crayons to clay and collage. The greater the diversity of materials, the more opportunities children have to experiment and express themselves.
- Create a non-judgmental environment. It is key to allow children to create without fear of being corrected or judged. Artistic freedom is fundamental to genuine self-expression.
- Encourage other art forms. Self-expression is not limited to painting or drawing. Music, dance and theatre are also valuable forms of communication.
- Interpret and discuss their creations. Asking children about what they have created encourages reflection and the development of emotional language.
- Incorporate art into everyday learning. Integrating art into everyday activities and education allows children to see creativity as part of their lives.
Art is a place for children to learn to trust their ideas, to trust themselves and to explore what is possible.
CASVI VILLAVICIOSA, A SPACE WHERE CREATIVITY FLOURISHES
To support this vision, at Casvi Villaviciosa International School we incorporate testimonials from parents and educators who have observed significant improvements in children’s expression and confidence through art. Since my son has been participating in Casvi’s art activities, he has learned to communicate his emotions more openly and creatively,’ says one mother at our school.
At Casvi Villaviciosa, we understand the importance of art in children’s development. Therefore, our educational model promotes creativity as a key tool for self-expression. Through innovative methodologies, we provide children with an environment in which they can explore art in all its forms, develop their confidence and learn to communicate their emotions freely and creatively.
