Artsoup, October 2019

Well we are at Term 4 already, oh how the year is flying by.

Our Saturday group has taken a back seat this term due to the work we are doing in schools.

The next event can always be found at www.facebook.com/artsoupnz.

Our latest project has been to continue to link creative expression with ‘play’ in schools.

Up until the age of 7, research tells us, that the right side/creative side of the brain develops first. The most important thing at this age is to develop self-esteem and resilience. We can clearly see in our population, the effects of not developing and valuing this development. Previously in schools there has been a huge focus on the academics at the exclusion of the ‘’softer skills,’ creative self-expression within the Arts. It is easy to connect the two, and support academics with ’hands on’ activities. The STEAM activities are great! This has contributed to the problems we now see with mental health and anxiety. All people need ‘balance!’

We have had great success using Play Based Learning alongside the Art Therapy techniques of self-expression for personal development and healing. Please see the photos below of our ‘beginnings’ of creating an interactive garden. We have great plans to include a mud kitchen, pots and pans, a road along the concrete slabs, a car ramp, and rocks painted as food and vehicles.

Giving children the voice of open ended questions and free creative expression, is so powerful! Happy children learn best! We certainly have the results to show it! We believe Play Based learning is actually about giving our children a voice and valuing what they express. Many adults have lost this voice. We all need to ‘play’ so much more!

We have many stories of how these techniques have helped so many children to be heard. For some children, words are simply not enough. To be able to express creatively, following their interests and passions, has produced many ‘lightbulb moments’ and profound results. To be allowed to ‘lose’ themselves creatively is euphoric.

Children know how to learn, sometimes adults just need to get out of the way!

We continue to be passionate about providing programmes for children and assisting them to find their ‘voice.’

Not sure where this will take us but we are dedicated to follow the passion, share the talents and make a difference! Will keep you posted!