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

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...

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Published inCognitive development Vol. 75; p. 101606
Main Authors Brechet, Claire, Saget, Clara, Vijil, Isabella
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Elsevier Inc 01.07.2025
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Abstract 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.
AbstractList 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.
ArticleNumber 101606
Author Brechet, Claire
Vijil, Isabella
Saget, Clara
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Keywords Emotional regulation
Drawing
Natural affect
Developmental psychology
Distraction
Children
Mood enhancement
Activity type
Language English
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SubjectTerms Activity type
Children
Developmental psychology
Distraction
Emotional regulation
Mood enhancement
Natural affect
Title From blank page to bright mind: Comparing the emotional benefits of drawing and other activities in children
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