From blank page to bright mind: Comparing the emotional benefits of drawing and other activities in children

• Published in: Cognitive development Vol. 75; p. 101606
• Main Authors: Brechet, Claire, Saget, Clara, Vijil, Isabella
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Inc 01.07.2025
• Subjects: Activity type; Children; Developmental psychology; Distraction; Emotional regulation; Mood enhancement; Natural affect; Emotional regulation; Drawing; Natural affect; Developmental psychology; Distraction; Children; Mood enhancement; Activity type
• ISSN: 0885-2014
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cogdev.2025.101606

Few studies have examined drawing as a tool for children’s emotional regulation, with some evidence suggesting it can improve emotional states, particularly when used as a distraction. However, important questions remain. This study investigated whether the emotional benefits of drawing are greater than, or comparable to, those of other engaging activities. One hundred fifty children aged 7–8 years rated their emotional state (T1), engaged in one of four activities (drawing, tangram puzzle, reading, or passive observation), and then rated their emotional state again (T2). Results show that children’s emotional state improved in the drawing, tangram, and observation conditions, but not in the reading condition. These findings suggest that emotional regulation is not specific to drawing, nor is it merely achieved by engaging in any activity, but rather depends on the nature of the activity itself. This study helps clarify how typical daily activities can influence children’s emotional regulation and underscores the value of choosing activities that support emotional well-being. •This study compares the emotional effects of drawing to three non-drawing activities in children aged 7–8.•Results reveal that emotional improvement is not specific to drawing, but depends on the nature of the activity.•Drawing, tangram, and observation were associated with improved emotional valence; reading was not.•Emotional improvement was observed in a natural context, without inducing negative mood.•Findings provide practical insights for promoting emotional well-being in children through everyday activities.