Art Therapy Workshops for Preschoolers, Centered on Creativity Development
Journal Title: Journal of Experiential Psychotherapy - Year 2015, Vol 18, Issue 3
Abstract
Introduction: Art therapy unlocks the access gate to one’s self, being based on the spontaneity of expression and on overcoming the communication barriers, involving the human creativity and the non-verbal expression of emotions and cognitions. The creative-expressive techniques help children to understand themselves, set themselves free from the accumulated anxieties, and loosen the process of elaborating strategies in solving conflicts and developing personal skills. Objectives: The present research aims to analyze the manner in which the introduction of art therapy workshops in kindergarten leads to creativity development in preschoolers. 12 children aged between 3 years and 6 months – 5 years and 6 months, selected from 3 groups, were involved in the study, with the written consent of the parents. Methods: The art therapy program for preschoolers centred on creativity development was structured in nine weekly workshops of two hours each, for a period of three months. In order to reach the objectives set and to emphasize the questions of the research, the following methods have been used: the observation method, the interview and the analysis of activity products. Results: The effects materialized in positive changes of preschoolers both at the level of behaviour and action, confirmed by the parents and teachers, are: (1) the development of the capacities of verbal and non-verbal expression of emotions, needs and wishes, (2) the increase of self-confidence and improvement of relationships with other persons, (3) the development of spontaneity, imagination and creativity, (4) the release from accumulated tensions, frustrations and emotions. Conclusions: The obtained results show that the use of creative-expressive techniques gives children the impression that they are playing and the motivation to play increases their authentic participation degree, the benefit being often maximal and a topic such as creativity development can be extremely attractive for them. It is very important that the adults encourage and support the cognition and creative manifestation of their children by adopting a democratic style, constantly encouraging and supporting their achievements, through well-intended and constructive criticism.
Authors and Affiliations
Alina M. Moldovan, Laura E. Năstasă
Keywords
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