Emotions in Colours: Enhancing Creativity and Self-Care in Children in Social Care through the Creative Journal

The “Colour and Emotions” workshop was designed to enhance emotional well-being and resilience in children residing in foster care at the Galtee Clinic, Ireland. This study integrates principles of social pedagogy and the Diamond Model to create a safe and inclusive environment where children can explore, express, and validate their emotions through creative journaling with colour. By engaging in these activities, the children developed improved emotional awareness, effective coping strategies, and enhanced communication skills. The workshop not only fostered their immediate emotional expression but also contributed to their long-term psychological resilience and well-being. The findings suggest that colour-based journaling is a valuable tool for emotional education in foster care settings, providing practical insights for future interventions aimed at supporting the emotional and social development of vulnerable children.