Don’t Call Them ‚Snowflakes‘: Oxford Students Provided with Crayons to Alleviate Stress

Introduction

Oxford University students have been given crayons and colouring books to help them cope with exam stress. The initiative, which is part of the university’s “welfare provision”, has been criticised by some as infantilising and pandering to a generation of “snowflakes”. However, supporters argue that it is a harmless and effective way of helping students to relax and focus.

The Controversy

The use of the term “snowflake” to describe young people who are perceived as overly sensitive or easily offended has become increasingly common in recent years. Critics of the crayon initiative argue that it is symptomatic of a culture that coddles and indulges young people, rather than preparing them for the challenges of the real world. They argue that students should be encouraged to develop resilience and coping strategies, rather than being given childish distractions.

However, defenders of the initiative point out that exam stress can be a serious problem for many students, and that there is nothing wrong with providing them with tools to help them manage it. They argue that the use of colouring books and crayons is a harmless and effective way of promoting relaxation and mindfulness, and that it is not intended to infantilise or patronise students.

The Benefits of Colouring

Research has shown that colouring can be an effective way of reducing stress and anxiety. The act of colouring requires focus and concentration, which can help to distract the mind from negative thoughts and worries. It also has a calming effect on the body, reducing heart rate and blood pressure. In addition, the repetitive and meditative nature of colouring can promote mindfulness and relaxation.

The use of colouring books and crayons is not a new phenomenon – it has been used in therapeutic settings for many years. However, it has only recently gained popularity as a mainstream tool for stress relief. The trend has been driven in part by the rise of adult colouring books, which have become a popular pastime in recent years.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the use of crayons and colouring books to help students cope with exam stress has sparked controversy, with some critics accusing it of infantilising young people. However, supporters argue that it is a harmless and effective way of promoting relaxation and mindfulness. Research has shown that colouring can be an effective way of reducing stress and anxiety, and it has been used in therapeutic settings for many years. While it may not be a solution for everyone, it is a tool that can be helpful for some students in managing the pressures of university life

Original article Teaser

Oxford Students Given Crayons to Relieve Stress – But Don’t Dare Call Them ‘Snowflakes’

Students at the University of Oxford have been given free colouring pencils to relieve stress. This follows the news that the Oxford Union will make ‘welfare resources’ available when Kathleen Stock is due to give a talk at the Union later this month for those students who feel traumatised by the presence of the UnHerd columnist. Ewan Somerville in the Telegraph has more. The exercise has been rolled out in the Bodleian Social Science Library and elsewhere on university sites. Bundles of coloured pencils are provided on a table to undergraduates, along with a sign to “try out some mindful colouring”, a picture posted online shows. The notice says: “Give your mind a break. Help yourselves to some pencils and

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