, discussionAt Dot Kids we foster emotional literacy in children, through the power of artistic dialogue.
In our Dot Kids sessions, you child will discover much more than just paint and brushes. Your child will experience meaningful discussion and emotional growth. We believe that art isn't just about creating; it's about connecting, communicating, and understanding ourselves and others.
"How Does This Art Work Make Us Feel?"
One of the most powerful questions we explore in our sessions is: "How does this art work make us feel?" We dive into rich conversations about artworks, encouraging children to articulate their initial reactions and delve deeper into the emotions evoked. This isn't just about identifying happy or sad; it's about exploring the nuances of feelings; curiosity, wonder, excitement, loneliness…
We also prompt discussions around: "What do we think the artist was trying to communicate?" This encourages empathy and critical thinking, as children step into the artist's shoes and consider their intentions. These shared explorations become a powerful springboard for children to then discuss their own artistic creations.
Articulating Feelings and Intentions
Imagine a six year old child proudly presenting their drawing. Instead of just saying "I like it," they might say, "I felt really happy when I drew the sun, and I wanted to show how bright and warm it is." This process of articulating their feelings and intentions behind their own art aids the development of emotional literacy.
For many children, especially neurodivergent children who may find traditional verbal expression challenging, art provides a unique and empowering pathway. It offers a non-pressured, visual language through which they can explore and express their inner world. When words fail, colours, shapes, and textures can speak volumes. This can be incredibly liberating and builds immense self-discovery and emotional confidence.
Impacting Overall Wellbeing
The benefits of this approach extend far beyond the art class. By providing a safe and creative outlet for emotional expression, we are helping children build essential life skills. They learn to recognise, understand, and manage their emotions, leading to a profound impact on their overall wellbeing. This focus on emotional development is at the core of everything we do at Dot Kids.
At Dot Kids, we are passionate about nurturing the whole child. Our artistic dialogue is designed to be inclusive & supportive, whilst quietly building the foundations for a lifetime of emotional resilience. We believe that every child deserves the tools to express themselves authentically and confidently.