My Daughter Has Developed Her Own Form of ‘Art Therapy’ and It’s Truly Beneficial for Her

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Even for the briefest car rides, my daughter brings along crayons and scissors in our minivan. She carries a small red art case filled with paper, colored pencils, markers, and anything else she can stash inside, just in case inspiration strikes while we’re shopping at Target. She is one of the most ingenious kids I know. Recently, she even transformed our family-sized Cheez-It box into a “friend” named Marsha, who travels with us, seatbelted securely between her and her twin sister.

At just six years old, my child has discovered a passion for art that serves as her method of self-regulation. She recognizes when she needs a break from stressful situations and confidently says, “I need some alone time.” When I go to find her, she is usually off, immersed in her artwork. For her, creating art is a way to express herself and manage her emotions, whether they’re rooted in fear, anxiety, excitement, or even boredom.

Children who have experienced trauma can greatly benefit from various therapeutic methods, including art therapy. For instance, after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, many children found solace in art as a coping mechanism. The past year has presented our children with the unique challenges of navigating a worldwide pandemic, and art can provide a valuable outlet.

In an insightful article titled “Does Art Therapy Help You Manage Anxiety Symptoms”, Margaret Carlock Russo, Ed.D, LCAT(NY), ATR-BC, ATCS, President of the American Art Therapy Association, points out that engaging in art-making can help the brain’s neurological system to relax. Research indicates that this process can lower levels of stress-related brain chemicals, promoting relaxation and calming the nervous system.

Once my daughter completes a piece and steps back to admire it, a palpable calm fills the space. It’s a distinct transformation from how she felt when she began. In her creative zone, her body language and demeanor shift; her posture softens, and her movements become intentional rather than reactive. When she stands before her artwork, marker in hand, her breaths become quiet and peaceful. The act of creating art allows her to be fully present in the moment.

Just like adults, children can find relief from anxiety and panic symptoms through art therapy. It enhances their quality of life, aids emotional regulation, and equips them with coping strategies. Carlock Russo also notes that art-making encourages people to pause and focus, offering a simple yet effective way to manage stress. The tactile nature of art supplies provides sensory input, which can further alleviate stress through the playful aspect of creation.

As crayon shavings, markers, and occasional glitter accumulate in our minivan, I take comfort in knowing my daughter is channeling her feelings through art. This creative outlet has become her favorite pastime, and she excels at it. Even her whimsical La Croix box Wonder Woman shields bring her immense joy and confidence, prompting her to exclaim, “Aren’t these so cool, Mommy?” Her enthusiasm is all I need to see her transform my home office into her personal art studio.

Her passion for art has also taught me the importance of flexibility and letting go of my need for a pristine home. I often discover glitter and glue stuck to my work papers and find mounds of used paper scattered around the house, remnants of her artistic endeavors. But I remind myself that creating brings her happiness and helps her connect with her feelings. She is finding her own way to self-regulate through this unique form of art therapy, and I fully support her in using every bit of that 500-sheet paper pack.

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In summary, my daughter has discovered a powerful tool for self-expression and emotional regulation through art. Her creativity not only helps her manage her feelings but also brings joy and tranquility into her life. As a parent, witnessing her engage with art in such a meaningful way has been a beautiful experience.


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