Creative art allows children to express feelings on any subject through creative work rather than with speech, it is believed to be particularly helpful for those who feel out of touch with their emotions or blocked their feelings. Children experiencing difficulty discussing or remembering painful experiences will be able to express their thoughts and emotions easier. Releasing intense emotions, and tactile techniques, such as working with color, paint, clay, may provide a refuge from these feelings. These activities have also been shown to be effective in revealing unconscious material, providing cathartic release, and promoting verbal expression.
Thus, increasing focus on positive life experiences, increased self-worth, maintenance of social identity (as opposed to being defined by loneliness and grief), and an increased ability to express their feelings in a symbolic manner even better health and well-being.
