Just Five More Minutes.....Please?

(parentingbeyondpunishment.com)

We all know that one of the most challenging tasks for a mother, a grandmother, a teacher, or anyone else who works with children is to get them to do what they were asked to do, when they were asked to do it.  Often the reason the child does not immediately obey is because he or she is focused on doing something fun. Who wants to leave when you are thoroughly enjoying what you are doing? Right?

The late and great psychologist Carl Jung (1875-1961) was way ahead of his time when he prescribed "coloring" for his patients.  Jung felt that it would help his patient's access their subconscious and new self-knowledge.  Many psychologists today suggest coloring to their patients as an alternative to medication, as a means of relaxation, and as a calming tool.  It can help the individual focus on the act of coloring intricate pictures for hours on end, vs. focusing on intrusive and troubling thoughts. 

Doing therapeutic artwork can help reduce feelings of anxiety and unpleasantness.  The focus we place on the project at hand, and on an object can replace negative and unhelpful thoughts from entering our minds.  The step of acting and doing vs. observing is a powerful deterrent to focusing on physical or emotional pain.

Adult coloring books clearly help serve many purposes that are beneficial.  They are highly effective for many reasons, and the ideas behind them have stood the test of time, even if they feel like they are only the latest fad.  Try one out and you may just surprise yourself. (huffintonpost.com/7 Reasons Adult Coloring Books Are Great for Your Mental, Emotional and Intellectual Health)

(care.com)

Who knows, maybe your roles will reverse.   It might be your child with arms folded, toe tapping, and impatiently waiting, and it might just be you saying, "Just five more minutes....please??

(P.S.  Our Book 2 and Young at Art bag are close to being available!  This one focuses on sculpture!  Watch for it soon....

We're thinking of making a Book 3 and art bag just for grown-ups. Is that something that would interest you??  As with the other bags, for each one sold, one will be donated.  The "grown-ups bag" would be donated to a women's shelter, immigrants, or any other adults in need.

Let us know your thoughts!)