Drawings

Suggested Group(s): Young/Middle/Teen

Purpose: To explore themes relevant to group and group discussions through non-verbal expression

Task/need: Drawing can be utilized to address any of the tasks or needs depending on the topic of focus for the drawing

Activity Setup Ideas:

Introduce the topic or topics to be addressed by the drawing first, before describing the activity. Topics might be related to previous group discussions or not
Have some discussion around the topic of the drawing and try to elicit thoughts about what can be included in the drawing from many group members.

Materials:

Construction paper
Markers
Colored pencils
Scissors
Glue

Description: After having the discussion and setting the stage for the topic, provide the group members with the materials to create the drawing as they choose. Give plenty of support and inquire about the work as it is being completed.

Activity Wrap Up Ideas: Allow the group to share their work and discuss what went in to the drawing. Also inquire into the feelings of making the drawing. Use the drawings to guide the conversation about the topic chosen for the drawings.

Allow the children to decide what they wish to do with their drawings – take them home, leave at the Caring Place, or destroy.

Suggestions for topics:

Regrets — Have group members draw pictures of or write regrets that they have about the loved one
Favorite day — Depict the favorite day spend with the person who died
Wished for day — If the person could be here just one more day…
Gifts (intangible) — What they got from the person who died
What I remember most — Memories about the person who died
Funeral/Memorial Service — How it was & how they wished it would have been what they imagined it to be if they didn't go)
My family — Have group members make a drawing of their families either with or without the person who died
Places to receive support — Encourage group members to think about and/or draw things that represent sources of support or comfort for when they are needed