Embracing art and literature is an investment in their mental well-being tomorrow – an invaluable asset for their future lives

Many decades ago, when I chose to study literature in college, at a time when many of my peers were choosing science, people raised eyebrows. It was thought to be the choice of the mediocre, a subject that did not require much intellect or dedication. Students who did not secure a place in the top areas eventually settled there. Art and literature were not considered sustainable then. Even now it is not given much importance by the parents.

Creative pursuits are still classified as hobbies and are marginalized as children reach higher grades or enter college. Why? Because art is not sustainable. It is not profitable. It doesn’t build a career as easily as a degree in science, technology or accounting. There may still be some truth to this contention that prompts parents to withdraw their children from extracurricular activities as the race to the future heats up. But the role of creative pursuits in providing our children with a respite from the stress of career development cannot be understated. At a time when they are faced with the challenges of higher education, what might bring them a respite from their worries are artistic endeavors. Often, within the lines of a sketch or the lines of a poem, children find a voice beyond words—a silent but powerful release of their inner thoughts and emotions. In a world that measures success by exams and grades, these activities provide a haven where the mind is free to wander, explore and create without limits. Studies have consistently shown that students who engage in painting, writing, music, dance, or drama experience lower levels of stress than those who do not.

These activities act as a counterbalance to the rigid schedules and deadlines that studies impose, allowing children to relax and channel their energies into something all their own. One of the often overlooked merits of art and literature is the development of emotional intelligence. When children immerse themselves in stories, they begin to understand complex emotions, both their own and those of others. A novel might teach empathy, while a piece of music might mirror the feelings they struggle to articulate. These moments encourage self-awareness, which is essential in today’s fast-paced world where young people are faced with social pressures and academic demands. These creative activities not only make children more empathetic; it also teaches them to become aware of their inner world—a skill that will serve them well beyond the walls of a classroom.

In those moments when they feel overwhelmed, they can turn to the comfort of a favorite book, the joy of drawing, or the calm of journaling. It becomes a personal ritual, a way to recharge and refresh, like finding shelter from a storm in the pages of a story or the shades of a canvas. Extracurricular activities such as dance, music, art and creative writing are not just fun; they are crucibles in which life skills are forged. Problem solving, adaptability, and innovation—all essential skills in adulthood—find their roots in these activities. Children learn patience through practice, resilience through failure, and confidence through expression, creating a solid foundation that will support them through life’s inevitable challenges. Parents and educators need to recognize the role these activities play in a child’s mental and emotional development.

Fostering a balanced approach between academics and extracurricular interests can create resilient individuals who are not only high achievers, but also happy and healthy people. As life’s pressures mount, these creative expressions become anchors, grounding us in times of stress and rekindling the joy we’ve pushed aside in our rush to grow.

(The author is a columnist and children’s writing coach based in Dubai; opinions are personal)