The practice of ceramics can develop the emotional intelligence of young people, strengthening their self-esteem and improving the way they interact with themselves and with others. Through the manipulation of clay, young people learn to express their emotions even in a non-verbal way and therefore represent a very particular way to explore inner feeling and emotions. The use of the senses, in particular touch, is also very important to involve any young people with visual impairment experiencing isolation and social marginality. Some of the recognized benefits in terms of emotional intelligence development are: self-awareness as working with clay encourage introspection and self-reflection; emotion regulation as clay can be used as a mindfulness practice helping individuals focus their attention on the present moment; empathy as individuals interpret each other’s clay creations and they can better understand the emotions and experiences of their peers; promoting interpersonal relationships and social skills, as working together on creative artworks encourages communication and team building among young people. In general, therefore, ceramic processing provides a truly holistic approach to personal emotional healing and growth.
The processing of ceramics also has countless benefits for the development of the psychomotor skills of young people and particularly, the sensory capacity is stimulated, especially touch. The processing of ceramics also requires good manual coordination and in general, promotes greater control and strengthening of the muscles in the hands, fingers, and wrists. It also improves motor precision and has many benefits in terms of posture and ergonomics.
In the context of non-formal education, ceramic processing can be used as a group activity to foster team building and therefore improves the relational and interpersonal skills of young people in terms of communication and collaboration through assisting each other to solve better problems, conflict resolution through managing disagreements and keeping a harmonious working atmosphere. Many other skills are also developed, including entrepreneurial skills, where young people employed in ceramic workshops will strengthen their ability to generate creative and innovative ideas, take a decision, face challenges and setbacks, solve a problem, work in teams, networking etc. thus acquiring important skills both for personal and professional life.
Finally, ceramics as an art form and craft can offer various employment opportunities for young people in different sectors of activity.
Young people who have an interest in ceramics can become future artisans and craftsmen, designing their products, and selling them in the market. Ceramic products, being of various uses, can be sold to different customers in different sectors, from catering to tourism etc. but also for example to make components for sanitaryware, electronics etc. Moreover, ceramics can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path for young people, allowing them to combine their creativity with entrepreneurship and contribute to the preservation of traditional craftsmanship in their countries.
It is also important to experiment with new types of ceramics and new materials so as to always offer modern and cutting-edge products but also to explore sustainable and eco-friendly practices in ceramics (e.g., how to convert a product into a new product, how to choose natural and low- toxic-colored powders etc.)
In this Manual, partners in C.A.R.E highlighted all these positive aspects, both on psycho-physical well-being, on mental and individual well-being, and on well-being in the workplace as results of an increasingly holistic approach to the art of ceramics. Ceramics also promotes several transversal skills and is therefore a very innovative non-formal learning practice, allowing young people with disabilities to be involved too.