Art therapy for kids: why no art skills are needed
When parents hear "art therapy," many picture a child who is already good at drawing. It's actually the opposite. Art therapy is about the process, not the picture.
Art therapy can look like this
For kids, it can be easier to show a feeling than to explain it. Drawing, building or working with clay can give them another way to express what's going on when words are hard to find. Nothing is graded, and there is no right way to do it.
Sessions can include art, play, conversation or a mix. A child might draw how their week felt, build something that shows how their family feels, or just talk while their hands stay busy.
More than art: expressive therapies
Creative therapy doesn't stop at drawing. Expressive therapies use many creative ways to help kids find a way to talk about difficult things. We have clinicians on our team who are music therapists, and we use drama, music, movement and other creative tools too.
These approaches can help kids:
Find words, or ways to show what they're feeling when talking is hard
Build coping skills they can actually use at home and at school
Practice creative ways to connect as a family
Parents and caregivers can be part of this too. Many families leave with ideas they can try together at home.
What an art therapy session might look like
Sessions are relaxed and led by your child's interests. A therapist might offer a few materials such as markers, clay, paint or collage and invite your child to make something, with no pressure about how it looks. While your child creates, the therapist chats, notices, and gently asks questions. The artwork is a way into the conversation rather than something to be graded. Some kids talk a lot while they draw. Others stay quiet and that is okay too.
Low-pressure ways to try it at home
You can bring a little of this into everyday life. Set out paper and markers and draw alongside your child without commenting on the result. Try a "feelings weather report" where you each draw the weather that matches your mood. Make a simple collage from old magazines about "things I like." Squish playdough together during a tough conversation. Keep it short, optional and fun.
How to respond to your child's artwork
It is tempting to say "that's beautiful" or to guess what it means. Try instead: "Tell me about it" or "I notice you used a lot of blue." Let your child lead. A drawing of a dark storm is not a diagnosis, and it does not need to be explained. Your curiosity matters more than your interpretation.
Is art therapy a good fit?
It can be a great option for kids who find it hard to put feelings into words, who feel shy in talk-only settings, or who simply like to create. You do not need any art skills. Ask the therapist how they use art in sessions so you know what to expect.
Questions parents ask
Will my child be judged on their art? No. The point is the process, not the product.
What if my child says they are not artistic? That is very common and very welcome. Many kids begin with doodling or just exploring materials.
Can parents be involved? Yes. Ask your therapist how they would like to include you, whether that is check-ins or ideas for home.
How do we start? Text us at 661-383-2252, or book a free 15 minute consult to ask questions first.
It isn't only for little ones
Teens and adults often find creative tools take the pressure off talking, especially at the start.
Our team includes a registered art therapist, and several of our therapists bring creative tools into their work. If you'd like help choosing someone, text us at 661-383-2252.
Art therapy: Art Therapy
Child therapy: Child Therapy
Teen therapy: Adolescent & Teen Therapy
Find a therapist: Find Your Therapist
Explore: No-cost therapy for kids and teens in Santa Clarita
Creative Connections, 24325 Main Street, Ste. 102, Newhall