A symbol of hope, change, and an emblem of a Children’s Grief Awareness Day, butterflies carry a universal meaning for all of us. We invite you to either: color in your own butterfly or construct your very own tissue paper butterfly to dedicate to the memory of someone who has died. Expressive arts, like coloring and painting, are nonverbal communication strategies and techniques that allow expression through alternative means when words are not available to the child in describing their experience (Weiskittle & Gramling, 2018; Wymer, Ohrt, Morey, & Swisher). This activity is just one arts-based approach to opening up a conversation about grief!
Materials:
- tissue paper (at least 2 different colors, but up to 4 will work)
- clothespins
- scissors
- your choice of either pipe cleaner, ribbon, or paper
- glue (optional)
Instructions:
- Cut 2 pieces of tissue paper into squares (6 inches by 6 inches if you are using a traditional sized clothespin)
- If you choose to, paint or color the clothespin
- Use the clothespin to clamp down directly in the middle of the stacked tissue paper
- Fluff, adjust, or even trim on either side of the clothespin to finish the wings
- Glue your choice of paper, pipe cleaner, or ribbon at the top of the clothespin to create your butterfly’s antennae
Note: If you are using a smaller clothespin, simply adjust the size of the tissue paper squares to match. Remember, you can always cut the wings shorter once you have finished clamping your tissue paper.
Share your butterflies virtually on Facebook or Instagram using #hopefortheseason, and remember to tag New Hope for Kids!
References:
Weiskittle, R. E., & Gramling, S. E. (2018). The therapeutic effectiveness of using visual art modalities with the bereaved: a systematic review. Psychology research and behavior management, 11, 9–24. https://doi.org/10.2147/PRBM.S131993
Wymer, B., Ohrt, J. H., Morey, D., & Swisher, S. (2020, April). Integrating Expressive Arts Techniques Into Trauma-Focused Treatment With Children. Journal of Mental Health Counseling, 42(2), 124+.
Check out Children's Grief Awareness Day via New Hope for Kids' Social Media Pages!
