Children Grieve Too – Art Therapy For Grieving Children

As we move through life, grief is something that we will all eventually experience. Whether we lose someone suddenly, or watch them decline slowly, we can still experience a wide range of emotions: from sadness and anger to guilt and everything in between. Although it is a natural and normal response, grief can affect our thoughts, feelings and actions in numerous ways.

Processing the loss of a loved one can be lengthy and turbulent, and unique for each person. Children experience the same muddle of emotions that come with grief as adults do; however, children often lack the words to express their grief, so it tends to manifest in other ways. Most children have some understanding of death, but the idea can be difficult to grasp when they are faced with it personally. Since children often feel more comfortable expressing themselves through their behaviour and play, art therapy can be an excellent way to help children process their big emotions when words alone cannot.

Channelling complex emotions through art mediums like drawing, painting, sculpting and collaging, can help children to view their feelings externally, and from a different perspective. An art therapist who provides a safe, and creative environment for self-expression, can support a child to develop new ways of coping with their grief, and enable them to feel a sense of control and comfort in telling their story. Art materials can be used to commemorate their loved ones and remember positive memories all the while gradually processing the loss they’ve experienced.

Research supports the effectiveness of art therapy in helping grieving children process their emotions. A study titled Art Therapy with Grieving Children found that children engaging in art therapy experienced an increase in positive emotions and a significant decrease in negative emotions. The study highlights how art therapy fosters exploration and expression of feelings, offering a supportive way for children to navigate the complex grieving process.

Throughout my work I have seen how engaging in art can be therapeutic for children, providing a way to alleviate stress. It can be a great self-soothing tool to help young people relax and momentarily escape their current reality. No artistic skills are necessary to benefit from art therapy. The benefits stem from the act of creating art itself, not the finished product.

If you believe your child would benefit from professional help, consider seeking the assistance of an art therapist. There are many techniques art therapists can use to help children understand and express their emotions in a way that is tolerable for them. Please get in touch to discuss how art therapy may support your child.