Connecting Creatively- Supportive, Safe and Enriching Environment for Families
The Connecting Creatively project, funded and in partnership with the Mental Health Foundation, focuses on fostering creativity and strengthening bonds within families. Using a trauma informed approach. Participants share positive experiences, emphasising the value of dedicated time for creative activities.
Background
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Single Parent Wales (SPW) initiated 'Creativity in Covid,' providing online workshops for single parents and children. The success of this pilot project led to the launch of 'Connecting Creatively,' a two-year initiative funded by our long standing partner Mental Health Foundation. This program, developed collaboratively with single-parent families, offers a variety of online and face-to-face creative workshops across Wales. Grounded in research showing the mental health benefits of creative activities, Connecting Creatively aims to enhance mood, reduce stress, and strengthen relationships between single parents and their children. The project emphasises the importance of stable and committed relationships in building resilience in children.
Single parents felt that learning new skills together with their children helped them build connections and strengthened their relationship.
“It gave the children a chance to see me doing something that wasn’t just about ‘Mum’ they teased me about my craft and told friends they liked it etc, so ended up holding the picture up to the fence…lovely memories”
(Survey Respondent)
Research tells us that taking part in creative activities can enhance mood, reduce stress and depression across all ages (Stuckley, H. 2010). Connecting Creatively offers a range of creative activities that are fun, challenging and health promoting. Parents learn alongside their children and model healthy behaviours which in turn can be learned and passed on by the next generation.
The workshops were organised by different facilitators and covered a wide array of topics, from crafting and art to mindfulness and physical activities. Overall, the project aimed to provide a positive and enriching experience for participants, combining elements of fun, learning, and therapeutic engagement. There was a mixture of online and in person workshops.
What was achieved
Over the last 2 years 5 months, the "Connecting Creatively" project has held 225 workshops, reaching a substantial number of beneficiaries.
Throughout its life cycle, the project has assisted 504 families, with an average of 7 attendees per session. This figure includes 2 ASD Surfing sessions tailored for smaller groups.
68% of participants attended 3 or more Connecting Creatively
Notable achievements in the last 3 years include the delivery of 24 volunteer-led sessions, the continuation of Play Therapy sessions for 0-4 year olds (led by a single parent), and ASD sessions in partnership with Kalm Seas.
The project's impact extends beyond direct participation, as it has contributed to the knowledge and skills development of Single Parent Wales (SPW) staff. The incorporation of trauma-informed creative practices into SPW's ethos is a significant milestone.
Post-project sustainability is evident in the integration of trauma-informed creative approaches into other SPW projects, such as the MOF-funded 'craftism' sessions co-produced with young people. Additionally, successful fundraising efforts have ensured the continuation of the Parents Of Little Ones Group for an additional 6 months.
Overall, the Connecting Creatively project has made substantial contributions to the well-being and skills development of participants, and its positive influence will persist in the form of continued initiatives and embedded practices within SPW.
The project's impact and themes are highlighted below, using quotes from the surveys:
Quality Time and Bonding:
Participants express the joy of spending focused time together without the distractions of daily chores.
The sessions provide an opportunity for families to bond, creating a closer connection between parents and children.
"It’s a time where we both put our screens down. We both enjoy being creative but as she gets older the time spent doing it together lessens. These sessions dedicate time for us to really engage in the task and each other."
"Having the time with them, without the pressure of chores around."
"Feel closer and feel like we can bond better."
Learning and Skill Development:
Parents appreciate the project for helping their children learn new skills through creative activities.
The emphasis on 1:1 time allows for a team dynamic, enhancing the learning experience.
"Helping her learn new skills and talking whilst partaking in the activities. Having time and space to focus."
"My child is learning new skills and the connection is growing."
Relaxation and Stress Relief:
The project offers a break from the stresses of daily life, providing a safe space for relaxation and creativity.
Participants note feeling more present and relaxed during the creative sessions, contributing to positive mental well-being.
"It allowed me to have some time where I could be a bit more relaxed as I didn't have to prepare anything, and I just enjoyed it. Therefore, my daughter felt more relaxed too."
"I've been more present and been able to relax more, as has my daughter."
Community and Support:
Families appreciate the sense of community and camaraderie with like-minded individuals.
The project creates a safe space where families can share experiences, reducing feelings of isolation.
"It’s a safe space where I don't have to worry about mess, food, or paying for activities or storing the resources."
"I think I feel my situation feels more normal rather than me feeling like I was the only one - this has been achieved through speaking to other families at these events."
Empowerment and Pride:
Participants express a sense of empowerment, as evidenced by the pride in creating tangible items together.
Creative activities, such as making lipsticks or baking, contribute to a positive and enjoyable family experience.
"She’s more likely to share work, crafts and drawings to me with pride."
"It was the first time as a family we made cakes and it was lovely to see them empowered to mix the materials together and their faces when the muffins were cooked, was really special."
"Doing something creative together as a family and making lipsticks was cool."
Adaptability and Inclusivity:
The project accommodates various circumstances, such as single parenthood and the challenges of a busy lifestyle.
It provides a safe and inclusive space where families don't have to worry about mess, food, or financial constraints.
"As a busy single parent, it's hard to find moments of stillness and focus, so I do try to continue that."
"We know when we attend we will be coming away with something WE made together, it's a time for us and it's encouraged me to make more time for us, away from chores."
Positive Impact on Mental Health:
The project's influence extends beyond the creative realm, positively impacting participants' mental well-being during challenging times, such as dealing with the effects of Covid-19.
"When we had Covid the creative workshop with Calm in the Chaos injected fun and a rubbish time and connection with others. We laughed so hard at my poor attempt at the craft! Loved that the circus workshop made us do something fun together on what would have been a boring mundane weeknight - balancing chores and work."
"Feel happy to be involved with a community of like-minded people."
"It has made us closer and we enjoy coming back for more!"
In summary, the "Connecting Creatively" project has successfully created a supportive, safe and enriching environment for families, promoting creativity, connection, and positive mental health. Participants value the dedicated time, learning experiences, and the sense of community fostered by the project.
Creative workshops included:
Play Therapy Session 0-4
Polymer Clay
ASD Surfing
Family Herb Planter
Art Club
Cooking Class
Neurodiverse Workshop, Brain Power
Online Circus Fun
Tote Bags
Online Halloween Macrame
Screen Printing
Xmas Jesmonite
Xmas Snowflake
Creative Clubs
Family First Aid
Tie Dye
African Drumming
Decoupage Workshop
Forest School
Sports Day
Beach S'mores
Crystal Workshop
Fun Day
Chunky Yarn Snood
Sewing
Spit and Sawdust (skateboarding)
Film Night
Board Games
Beginners Crochet
Peggy Pots
North Wales Forest School
Wire Making
Online Hat Crochet
Christmas Wreath
Lino Print Workshop
Christmas Party
Gingerbread House Making
Film Night
Hot Water Bottle
Online Kumihimo
Cwtch ALN
Macramé Plant Holder
Candle Making
Role Play Lane
Polymer Clay
Sensory Walk
Forest School
Skateboarding
Soap Making
Closing CC party