Encouraging a Love of Arts in Your Children

Photo © Anne Coates

In the first longitudinal study of its kind, a team of researchers at UCL found that “Arts group participation… was associated with multiple positive aspects of wellbeing across the lifespan.” 

Within children in particular they found that participation in creative pursuits boosted wellness and self esteem (BUT there was no correlation between competency and self esteem, so it wasn’t a case of “I’m good at music/dance/art… therefore I value myself”…but simply “I DO music/dance/art…therefore I value myself”.)  They also noted that children who engaged with the arts developed better problem solving, communication and emotional management skills – leading to them showing fewer internalisation behaviours eg depression.  Moreover, they also found that many benefits were increased when parents engaged in those creative activities with their children.

The researchers surmised this was because the fundamental nature of the arts encouraged creativity and self-expression, along with teamwork or co-operation, and as such young people developed broader thinking patterns when it came to finding their own – or at least healthy –  solutions as they navigated their day.

Here are five simple ways in which you can encourage a love of the arts in your children:

1. Dance it off. If your child isn’t into sports, it’s ok – try a bit of dancing instead. The neurotransmitters that release on exercise (endorphins, endocannabinoids, and dopamine) will also kick in and he/she’ll feel great, plus it improves co-ordination and memory. There are lots of simple dance videos online, or if they join a class it’s a great opportunity to form friendships outside school.
2. Write/Draw. Get used to scribbling anything – even if it’s just one word emotions; it can begin an open dialogue about what might be going on. If words are too much, drawing shapes or just using colours can be a great way for children to express how they feel.  And you’ll learn something through the words, images and colours being used.
3. PLAY – for play’s sake! Play is an important part of growth. It teaches cognitive skills such as problem solving, along with emotional skills as children start to work in teams and learn about winning and losing... and trying again; and physical skills including dexterity and game-specific abilities. Yet as adults we need rules, structure and points. See if you can get lost in the world your children have created, for no other reason than to do something together.
4. Sing. Singing raises the production of oxytocin (a happy hormone) and in turn lowers the presence and production of cortisol (the stress hormone). It teaches rhythm, listening, as well as timing, and you’ll even learn about your varying tastes in music!  Whilst you may not be the next “Family Von Trapp”, you may yet discover some growing talents. 
5. Play a musical instrument. Even if you don’t want something so formal, just getting children to express their feelings through sound can be another great way to help them (and you) connect with their emotions.

Dr Audrey Tang is a psychologist, performance coach and founder of performing arts charity The Click Arts Foundation.