I have always found that encouraging and supporting autistic children and adults to create art has enormous benefits. The creative process not only raises self-esteem and confidence but fosters social interaction, independence and communication.
By guiding autistic individuals through the creative process we can help them in several key ways:
Develop Social Skills: I have seen huge improvements in social and communication skills, attention, and listening, as well as increasing self-awareness. The activity is mutually rewarding because both parties are involved in a unique, fun, and collaborative experience. This leads to better interpersonal skills and helps to develop and strengthen rapport between the teacher and student, which is so important.
Enhance Concentration & Learning: Working together on a creative project doesn’t require much verbal instruction because you guide them, when needed, by physically demonstrating how they can work with different materials to achieve certain effects and to express themselves creatively through that medium.
Art helps individuals to understand instructional language, both verbal and nonverbal, make choices, and express their likes and dislikes.
Improve Fine Motor Skills & Sensory Exploration: One of my favorite techniques is collage. By combining various materials like paper, fabric, and found objects, individuals can experiment with textures, colours, and patterns. This hands-on approach can be incredibly therapeutic and engaging. I often encourage my clients to collage using a range of materials, as it encourages joint attention and allows the autistic person to explore a variety of textures for a purpose. Plastic bags can be stretched and paper bags torn together; tissue paper can be rolled with the fingers and hand, which is a great way to develop and enhance fine motor skills. You support their work by grading assistance, which means giving your help when needed, not doing the work for them.
Increase Self-Awareness: The creative process allows individuals to explore their own thoughts and emotions. There is nothing quite like the look of sheer joy and pride in the face of an autistic child as they hold up their finished artwork. This newfound power is key in developing a sense of self and pride in their own accomplishments.
And don’t worry about the cost of materials, often the most interesting and inspiring materials can be found in everyday items like old magazines, packaging and even in nature.
As with many things in life, I find that the journey is more important than the final destination,
thanks to the transformative power of art. But that said, the end product is always a unique and wonderful surprise!
Comments