Inside/outside masks
It all begins with an idea.
Many times we keep things inside when we don’t feel safe to show it to others. We can often think about this as our inner world versus what we show on the outside.
This activity allows children to explore the feelings they have on the inside versus how they show themselves to the outside world.
Materials: paper or cardstock, coloring and drawing materials; a mirror
Begin by having your child/children draw two ovals, or helping them to draw two ovals. On the first oval have them draw a self portrait using the mirror. When your child has finished the portrait explain that the other oval is the inside of the mask. Ask them to use their imagination to draw how they feel inside.
Give your child time to work—perhaps do one for yourself.
Discussion: When your child is finished discuss the differences between the two drawings.
Ask about what the creation of the masks felt like.
What feelings words can they put on the drawings.
Ask them about what things could change how the inside mask looks?
Look at the colors and patterns and just point them out to your child.
This kind of projective activity gets your child thinking about how they manage their inner emotions and how they can process big feelings without putting them on the spot.
Summer Coping Activities
Check back weekly for new coping skills. You can use a journal or scratch paper—whatever works. Some of the activities are self directed and some need a partner. Have a wonderful summer!
My goal is to post an activity that our students can do at home here at least weekly. These activities are aimed and practicing and understanding coping skills from an elementary perspective. The whole family can do them if they would like. I am so excited to try something new!
Take care,
Mrs. T
Mindful Mountains
It all begins with an idea.
This activity comes from Art Therapy for Kids by Erica Curtis. It is available at most major retailers.
A video demonstration for the visual learner is shown below.
Remember the focus is on the process, not the final product. If you find yourself worried over what your final picture will look like stop…refocus…and breathe.
Your art, is your art, don’t judge it. Just keep working!
In this video, Mrs. T helps you to get a mindful mountain activity started. You want to make sure that your focus throughout the activity is on the feel of the materials in your hands and on activating your senses. If you are able to do that effectively, you can help to slow down your brain and to help with feeling impulsive and reactive. Draw what comes to mind. Listen to soothing music or have a background with white noise.