Baqubah children’s centre uses drawing to reach children who withdraw

DIYALA — A children’s centre in central Baqubah runs drawing, colouring and pottery sessions, and its staff watch what the children choose to draw.

“Children who prefer drawing nature are usually cheerful and sociable, while introverted children tend to draw cartoon characters,” said teacher Ivan Ahmed. “Here, we intervene to support them and encourage them to add natural scenery behind the characters to gradually bring them out of their private worlds.” Some children draw people crying, injured or imprisoned, or sad faces, she said, and staff then talk with them, listen to their circumstances and help them change the idea behind the picture.

Alam Simsim, on Tabu Street, runs weekly sessions for children from beginners to those with developed ability, said director Ashraqat Abbas. “Alam Simsim is the first place in Baqubah dedicated to childcare and talent development through weekly, regularly updated activities related to art and expression,” she said. “These activities give children an appropriate space to express what is inside them through drawing, shaping and colors.” Drawing is a way for children to express themselves “at a time when screens have become the only outlet,” she said, with more screen time meaning less movement and less creativity.

Zahra Mustafa likes painting pottery. “I color the piece with a base color first, then add some drawings to make it beautiful,” she said. Jana Bahaa al-Din comes daily: “I come every day to learn and draw natural scenes that include flowers, butterflies and birds.”