Embedding Mental, Behavioral Health and Social Emotional Literacy Services into an After Care Program

Nadia Boulanger, who is referred to as music’s greatest teacher, said, “Art is the medium in which emotion is expressed” (Robin, 2021). The expression of emotion is a measure of our wellbeing. As this expression is nurtured and developed, we become in tune with ourselves and others. We can be in harmony with our emotions and the environment. Art provides a stage, a canvas, a story, a poem, a song, a dance, and many other forms of expression as an interpretation of our existence. In this paper, emotional literacy and its relationship to the arts will be examined. From the individual level to community concepts, these frameworks come together to support children, providing multiple avenues for discovering emotional balance and understanding.