The artworks in the “create art” frames were created by children in the Kuchingoro and Area 1 IDP camp and host community in Abuja, Nigeria, during a supported art project. Creativity helps vulnerable children heal, imagine, connect, communicate, hope, and dream.
CREATIVITY BUILDS, HEALS, AND CONNECTS
Children living in displacement can benefit from safe spaces where they can express themselves by engaging in different forms of creativity, such as games, dance, music, art, role-play, group activities and other culturally acceptable forms of expression. Creativity can help to build children’s imagination and communication skills, serving as an outlet for them to express their feelings, emotions, thoughts, experiences, ideas, hopes and dreams in their own way.
Allowing vulnerable children to express themselves in safe spaces can also support their psychosocial well-being. As they get involved, share, and learn, it can also help to improve their confidence and self-esteem.
As more children experience prolonged displacement due to ongoing conflicts, disasters, and different forms of persecution, solutions for children should recognise that empowering them for the future must begin while they are still living in camps and host communities. Providing support to children during the period of displacement should incorporate safe spaces that allow them to learn, share, engage, communicate, and express themselves.
The difference between where they are now and where they need to be in the future depends on the actions that we take today.
Note: No personal information about children have been included in this post to protect their privacy.