Engaging Youth through Creative Arts: Empathy in Action
One of the most powerful ways to build connections is through the creative arts. Using tools like painting, music or drama will help to engage with them. These methods allow young people to express themselves. Your empathy can make this process even more impactful.
Offering an environment where creativity thrives, you can engage young people on a deeper level. The creative arts give them a voice, but also help them navigate their emotions and experiences, allowing all of this in a safe space. But how do you help them reach their potential?
The first step is to lead with empathy. When you intentionally listen to the needs of the young people you're working with, you show them that they matter. You’re letting them know that their creative ideas no matter what, have true value. Empathy opens the door to artistic exploration that can help them feel more comfortable in their own skin. Maybe even comfortable enough to try, fail, and try again.
Here’s something to consider, not every young person is going to open up. Especially when it comes to expressing themselves creatively. You may have to meet them where they are, and gently encourage them to explore their own artistic abilities. When they see that you care about their growth and creativity, that’s when a breakthrough can happen.
Studies have shown that participating in creative activities can boost problem-solving skills and improve self-esteem. All of this goes to promote emotional intelligence. By mixing the arts into youth programs you give young people a platform to explore their identity, and a space to express their emotions in an accepting environment.
When you prioritize the experience of creating, over the result, you give them the freedom to explore without any fear of failure. They learn to be resilient and patient. They allow themselves to accept all of this, while developing essential skills like teamwork and communication. This experience will serve them not just in the arts, but in life.
Action Items for You: How to Foster Creativity and Empathy
1. Create a Safe, Open Environment: Let them know they are free to experiment and express themselves in whatever form of art speaks to them. Ensure that the space is welcoming and free from judgment. A place where they feel safe sharing their work and ideas.
2. Encourage Exploration, Not Perfection: Youth get caught up in the idea of making something “perfect.” Instead of this type of environment, encourage them to focus on the act of creating itself. Celebrate their effort, regardless of the final outcome. Your empathy in understanding the pressure they can feel, will help relieve that obligation of being “perfect”.
3. Be an Active Participant: Join them, even if it's picking up a paintbrush or trying out a musical instrument. Showing that you're willing to be part of the fun will make a lasting impression. It shows them that creativity has no age limit. Above all, it will show that you have no problem with perfection. It is fine to show off a skill you have, but showing them that you can take a chance on a skill you don’t have yet will make a bigger impression.
4. Listen to Their Ideas: Take the time to listen and reflect on what they are saying. You don’t have to be an expert in the arts to provide valuable feedback. By simply showing interest in their ideas, you can get them engaged. You can do this by asking open-ended questions about their work. Validating their thoughts will help them grow as creators and individuals.
The work you're doing is about creating opportunities for young people to connect with themselves and others. You’re building a village where empathy is the foundation. That has a ripple effect far beyond the canvas or the stage. When youth feel supported in their creative works, they are more likely to carry that confidence into other areas of their lives.
