Using Art to Connect with Kids

Art teacher Nisha Devadiga writes about the importance of art and how we can motivate our kids to use it as a medium to express their thoughts and feelings.    By Nisha Devadiga  

“Creativity is an area in which younger people have a tremendous advantage since they have an endearing habit of always questioning past wisdom and authority.”  – Bill Hewlett

Kids see the world through art, and it allows them to share their views creatively. For them, the sky can be pink and rain can be grey. How kids perceive the smallest things are worlds apart from how an adult perceives it. This difference is notable in their artwork, and this is what continues to fascinate me. Children love to mix colors, and they become excited when playing with colors and painting. The accomplished look on their faces is such a pleasure to watch, and I receive immense joy from teaching them. I love the input they have, and each result is as unique as each child is. The experience of creating and mastering a skill through different mediums helps to build their confidence and character. From their explorations and spreading paints magically, we receive a wall full of colorful self-made art. Here are my thoughts and observations on encouraging your kids to explore the creative process, and to have more conversations about art.

Stop to discuss colors and choices

Creativity flows when you provide the opportunity. Instead of giving colors you have chosen, try talking about the color options and how to use them. In my classes, we brainstorm and choose different colors to make it an interactive activity. It’s fascinating to see a revelation of colors when you allow the choice and you can learn what different colors mean to them. 

Offer a blank paper or canvas to connect with their cognitive and physical awareness

The chance to think and put onto paper is important as a visual art lesson. This adds to motor skill development and promotes visual thinking about shapes, sizes and coverage area on paper. By letting them explore creatively on paper they can learn about color differentiation and blending, hand control, and make observations. 

Look at what they are expressing through their work

Art allows the child to express and reflect his or her thoughts —  why are the clouds black, can I have my unicorn horn golden, or why is teal blue my favorite color? The range of questions thrown at me is not just limited to colors and mixing. Kids have a vision beyond our understanding and it shows in their artwork. Asking questions and talking about their work will give you an insight into their world.

Focus on the process

Remember the art session is not just limited to working and finishing up a task. Let them explore and create. By opening up the imagination, perseverance and concentration sets in. Art helps kids to practice patience when they are overloaded with school, sports, and other activities. The calming effects of art and colors are greatly beneficial.

Use art as therapy and engage their senses  

Through my work with children with special needs, I had a chance to understand how my small level of skill can make a huge difference for kids. Through art, children are able to differentiate colors, improve handwriting, and be more confident and happier. You can help children to overcome issues by engaging their senses by getting creative. I have the most gratifying experience when kids with special needs complete their projects. Despite the various challenges like color differentiation, fine motor skills, and also emotional challenges, they enjoy the whole process and make me proud.

Don’t forget to give yourself a creative outlet too

Even busy parents can also be inspired and create. By joining with a group of friends or just enjoy creating something fresh on your own —  get creative and see what you can achieve!  For example, doodling and mandala drawings can help you to reduce anxiety and relax your muscles. The benefits of art cannot be ignored and in this age when all are too busy, let’s take a moment to sit down, relax, and let our creative juices flow.  Photos courtesy of the author.

About the Author

Nisha started teaching art to students in Malaysia. Now based in Bangkok, she began teaching private classes after kids in her condo showed an interest in learning art after seeing her daughter’s artwork made under Nisha’s instruction. She is highly passionate about art and runs classes with multiple mediums for kids from 3 to 9 years and adults. For more information please contact Nisha on 0830356740.

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