Whenever the kids feel neglected (acting up), it's time for Art. I always find them more manageable after an uninhibited session of making a mess (license to make a mess). So, I took out all the glitter glue and scraps for them to do a collage. It wasn't easy to have them work together at the round table. Alfee was eager to try out all the different art materials while Sophie was always talking to me as she worked. But in the end, all ended well... messy but good!
I love Art Therapy. I got interested when I was doing my Master in Social Science (Counselling), but I was distracted by my parental responsibilities and I am never too good in self study. Yet, I didn't realise how much Art Therapy has influenced our family life until now.
I have always found Sophie a challenging child to parent and it took us a while before we discovered how much she loves doing art. Our relationship was turning really bad but we could actually co-exist when she was doing art with me. Little by little, we grew to understand and tolerate each other. Now, we still clash in many ways but our relationship is a lot more positive and loving. When the kids are older, I will do my Master in Art Therapy (hopefully next Aug) and help others benefit from it.
I just wish I could do more for my mum. I know we haven't been close or communicating much over the years. Her health isn't too good and I hope to use Art Therapy techniques on her if she allows me.
