More Than Words: Understanding Children’s Voices

I believe when people think about communication, they often think about words. But for young children, communication happens in many ways. 

A drawing carefully created at the art table. A sculpture made from clay. A painting inspired by a recent family holiday. These moments are more than creative activities. They can be powerful expressions of a child’s thoughts, feelings, experiences, and identity. 

Recently, I shared this perspective at the Children’s Voices Conference 2026, highlighting the many ways children communicate beyond spoken language.

Every Child Has a Voice 

Not all children express themselves through words alone. 

For young children, materials such as clay, paint, charcoal, and drawing tools can become a language of their own. Through creating, experimenting and exploring, children communicate what they are thinking, feeling and learning about the world around them.  

Sometimes a child may find it easier to show an idea through a drawing than to explain it in conversation. Other times, creative experiences help children process emotions, make sense of an experience or share something important to them. 

Looking Beyond the Finished Artwork 

As parents, it’s easy to focus on the finished painting hanging on the fridge. 

But often, real learning happens in the process. 

The choices children make, the stories they tell while creating, the materials they select and the way they engage with an activity can offer valuable insights into what interests them, what they’re curious about and how they’re making sense of their experiences. 

By taking the time to observe and ask open-ended questions such as “Tell me about your creation” or “What was your favourite part?”, families can uncover the rich thinking behind a child’s work. 

Building Confidence and a Sense of Identity 

Creative experiences help children do much more than develop artistic skills. 

They provide opportunities for children to explore who they are, express their ideas, and build confidence in their own unique way of communicating.  

When children feel their ideas are valued, whether expressed through words, movement, art or play, they develop a stronger sense of belonging and self-confidence. 

Supporting Your Child’s Voice at Home 

There are many simple ways families can encourage self-expression at home: 

• Provide open-ended materials such as paper, paint, pencils, recycled materials or playdough. 
• Focus on the process rather than the final product. 
• Encourage children to share the stories behind their creations. 
• Celebrate creativity and effort rather than seeking a “perfect” result. 
• Remember that every child communicates differently.

More Than Words 

At Only About Children, we believe every child deserves to be seen, heard and understood. 

By recognising the many ways children communicate, we can better understand their unique strengths, perspectives and experiences. Whether through words, art, movement or play, every child has a voice, and every voice matters.