What can we learn from children's drawings?

      Children’s drawings are open windows into their inner world, revealing emotions, perceptions, and even aspects of their cognitive and emotional development. For parents and teachers, interpreting these creations can be a valuable way to better understand children and support their growth. Studies from leading North American and European universities show that drawing is directly related to brain development, serving as one of the earliest forms of communication even before the acquisition of written language. The MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) methodology, created by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, highlights how creative thinking and symbolism in drawing contribute to identity formation and the ability to solve problems innovatively.

By observing children's drawings, it is possible to identify patterns in colors, strokes, and themes that reflect their emotional states and internal processes. For example, children who use bright colors and draw large, open figures tend to have more extroverted personalities, while those who use dark colors and reduced spaces may be expressing insecurities or repressed emotions. Child psychologists, particularly those following the ThM (Theater Movement) model, emphasize that these signs should be analyzed within the context of the child's routine—without hasty interpretations but always with care and understanding.

The relationship between drawing and motor coordination is also a fundamental aspect. Children who have the freedom to explore different artistic materials develop fine motor skills essential for writing and other school-related tasks. Studies indicate that holding a pencil, creating shapes, and filling spaces stimulate brain areas linked to planning and executing actions. In this sense, encouraging children to draw without aesthetic restrictions promotes their autonomy and self-expression.

Drawing also serves as an indicator of cognitive development. Younger children tend to create simpler strokes and disproportionate figures, but as they grow older, the complexity of their drawings increases, reflecting a refined spatial perception and a better understanding of the world. The family drawing exercise, for instance, is frequently used by therapists to understand how a child perceives their family environment and interpersonal relationships. A distant or absent family member in a drawing may indicate some form of conflict or emotional difficulty.

Creativity is another crucial factor to be nurtured through drawing. By encouraging free expression without imposing aesthetic standards, parents and teachers allow children to explore innovative solutions and practice divergent thinking. This aligns with the MAT methodology, which advocates for using theater and artistic expression as ways to stimulate socio-emotional and cognitive skills.

Beyond being a tool for expression, drawing can also serve as a therapeutic outlet for dealing with difficult emotions. Children experiencing stressful situations may find drawing a safe way to express fear, anxiety, or sadness. Child psychology recognizes drawing as an effective method for accessing feelings that might otherwise be difficult to verbalize. Therefore, maintaining an open dialogue about children's creations—without judgment—strengthens emotional bonds between parents and children and aids in emotional regulation.

The interpretation of children's drawings can also be enriched by incorporating theatrical elements, as proposed by the ThM methodology. Encouraging children to tell stories about their creations introduces a dialogue that enhances language development and imagination. This dramatized interaction expands their expressive abilities and fosters essential narrative skills for both academic learning and social life.

Another relevant aspect is the impact of drawing on a child's self-esteem. Positive recognition of their creations strengthens confidence and encourages perseverance. Schools can benefit from this strategy by displaying children's drawings and promoting discussions about different forms of art, reinforcing the idea that there is no "right" way to draw but rather multiple ways of seeing and representing the world.

Ultimately, understanding children's drawings as both a pedagogical and emotional tool expands the possibilities for meaningful interactions between adults and children, making learning more enriching and enjoyable. By valuing this spontaneous form of expression, parents and educators create a more welcoming environment where creativity and children's well-being are nurtured.

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