Art and Social Emotional Learning: Developing the Whole Child Through Visual Expression

Today’s educators recognize that academic success is only part of the equation. Students thrive when their emotional, social, and mental well-being are also supported—and art and social emotional learning (SEL) is a powerful way to develop the whole child.

Art provides a natural pathway for self-expression. In an elementary art curriculum, children learn to translate feelings into color, shape, and movement. Whether it’s drawing a safe space or creating a collaborative mural, these classroom art projects help students develop emotional literacy and empathy.

Studies show that regular engagement with the arts can improve students' emotional regulation, build resilience, and enhance interpersonal skills. These outcomes are crucial, especially in a post-pandemic world where social-emotional gaps are more visible than ever.

By incorporating SEL into K–8 art curriculum, schools can create safer, more inclusive classrooms. A well-rounded school art program teaches students to listen, observe, and reflect—key components of both artistic practice and emotional intelligence.

Importantly, these outcomes aren’t just “nice to have.” They align with standards-based art education goals and national priorities. Educators can use visual arts lesson plans that tie SEL themes to creative practice, ensuring developmentally appropriate learning across all grade levels.

Art helps kids process their world—and with the right guidance, it also helps them thrive within it.

Art in Action’s curriculum is designed to nurture students' social-emotional growth through creative expression. Discover how our programs support the development of the whole child at artinaction.org/blog/every-child-deserves-art