Interwoven throughout are discussions about elements of establishing a safe atmosphere for creative expression and reflection in both process and product. These include: creating a safe and relaxed environment to enable the expression of thoughts and concerns; responding to inquiries of a personal nature; providing variety and choices in materials; and facilitating non-threatening expressions of feelings. This interplay of modalities, along with comments about theory and technique, can serve as a guide for all those who want to work with children in a deeper, more empathic way.

Although the workshop was followed by two members trying out what they had learned with children in their hospital rooms while observed and assisted by the art therapist, such follow-up activities under supervision over time would be the optimal way to help participants integrate what they can take from such a workshop experience.

This video was formerly included in the Expressive Media Arts Therapies Films Collection distributed by Expressive Media Inc.