What is SEW-Arts
SEW-Arts helps arts organisations and teaching artists support young people’s social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB) through creative practice.
We know that when young people feel emotionally and socially supported, they are more likely to:
- Thrive socially, emotionally and creatively
- Express themselves
- Build meaningful connections
SEW-Arts provides a strength-based, adaptable Framework, with tools, key messages and teaching methods that integrate SEWB into arts programming. It also includes a reflective process to help arts organisations establish the structures necessary to prioritise SEWB development for all participants.
Why focus on Social and Emotional Wellbeing?
Social and emotional wellbeing is the balance that supports functionality - like the levelness of a table – it holds everything else up.
When young people develop good SEWB, they:
- Build confidence
- Cope with challenges
- Form meaningful relationships
- Support their lifelong mental health
Why the Arts?
The arts offer unique and powerful ways to support mental health and promote SEWB. The arts provide a safe, supportive and engaging space for young people to explore and express themselves and build connections with others.
While research continues to explore exactly how, we know creative activities can deeply support mental wellbeing.
See how the arts contribute to SEWB.
Our research
Our journey began by listening.
We asked young people in arts programs — and their parents — what helped them feel good about themselves and connect with others. Two powerful themes emerged:
- Being Myself
- Connecting with Others
These became the foundation for our Wellbeing Factors. We then co-developed a Framework around the specific Wellbeing Factors to help TAs intentionally focus on SEWB through the arts.
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Contact
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