How Colour Helps Kids Tap into Their Emotions

How Colour Helps Kids Tap into Their Emotions

Colour is more than just a visual experience; it has profound impacts on our emotions and behaviours. For children, especially those under the age of 10, understanding and expressing emotions can be a challenge. As a parent, you might notice your child having difficulty sleeping, which may stem from underlying emotional disturbances. 

At Surfing on a Cloud, we believe in integrating colour into your child’s environment and routine as research reveals it can enhance their emotional wellbeing and improve sleep quality. This blog explores how colour can help children tap into their emotions and provide practical tips to create a calming bedtime atmosphere.

The Psychology of Colour 

Colour psychology is a field that studies how colours affect human behaviour and emotions. For children, these effects can be even more pronounced as they are still developing their emotional intelligence. Studies have shown that different colours can evoke specific emotional responses. For example, blue is often associated with calmness and serenity, while yellow can evoke feelings of happiness and energy. By understanding these associations, parents can create environments that help soothe and comfort their children.

  • Blue: The Colour of Calm: Blue is often referred to as the most calming colour. It has been shown to lower heart rates and reduce feelings of anxiety, making it an excellent choice for a child’s bedroom. Incorporating blue into your child’s sleep space, whether through wall paint, bedding, or even soft blue lighting, can help create a serene atmosphere that promotes restful sleep. Research supports the calming effects of blue, making it a go-to colour for sleep-inducing environments.
  • Green: Nature’s Neutral: Green is another colour that promotes relaxation and calm. Associated with nature, green can create a sense of peace and stability. For children who may feel overwhelmed by their emotions, a green environment can help ground them and reduce stress. Adding plants or green accents in the bedroom can bring a touch of nature indoors, further enhancing the calming effect. Studies have shown that exposure to green can improve mood and cognitive performance, making it a beneficial addition to any sleep-friendly space.
  • Yellow: Bright and Cheerful: While too much yellow can be overstimulating, soft shades of yellow can bring warmth and comfort to a child’s room. Yellow is often linked to happiness and optimism, which can be beneficial for children who struggle with negative emotions. Using yellow in moderation, such as through accessories or artwork, can create a welcoming and joyful environment without being overpowering. The key is to balance yellow with more calming colours to prevent overstimulation.
  • Purple: Balancing Stimulation and Calm: Purple is a unique colour that can provide both stimulation and calm, depending on the shade. Lighter purples, like lavender, are known for their soothing properties and can be used to create a relaxing sleep environment. Deeper purples can add a sense of luxury and creativity. For children who are artistically inclined or have active imaginations, purple can be an inspiring yet calming choice for their bedroom decor. Research indicates that purple can help reduce stress and promote a sense of balance.

Practical Tips for Using Colour to Improve Sleep 

  • Choose Calming Colours for the Bedroom: Stick to cool colours like blue, green, and soft purples. Avoid bright or overly stimulating colours like red and bright yellow.
  • Use Colour Strategically: Incorporate calming colours through bedding, curtains, and wall art. Even small touches can make a significant difference.
  • Listen to Colour-Themed Bedtime Stories on Surfing on a Cloud app: Listen to Surfing on a Cloud stories that focus on calming colours and their effects. This can help your child associate these colours with relaxation and sleep.
  • Encourage Colouring Activities: Provide colouring books with themes that promote relaxation and allow your child to use calming colours. This activity can be both therapeutic and enjoyable.
  • Mind the Lighting: Use soft, coloured nightlights that emit calming hues. Avoid harsh white lights, especially before bedtime.

Conclusion

Colour is a powerful tool that can help children tap into their emotions and improve their sleep quality. By understanding the emotional impact of different colours and strategically incorporating them into your child’s environment and bedtime routine, you can create a calming and supportive atmosphere. At Surfing on a Cloud, we are committed to providing trusted solutions for children’s sleep needs, backed by research and expert insights. Explore our guided meditations and discover how colour can transform your child’s sleep experience.

Back

Kids Guided Meditations for Sleep

Download Now

How Colour Helps Kids Tap into Their Emotions