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The arts are vital
to every child’s growth and development. Whether
it’s through visual arts, music, or dance, the arts
promote creativity, problem-solving, increase motor
skills, and boost self-esteem. Children with
disabilities can especially benefit from it. The
arts can provide them with a new way of expression
and create a sense of accomplishment.
Praise and
Patience
With children,
art is about the process, not the end result. It is
a chance for them to explore and experiment.
Although many craft projects come with instructions,
you do not have to follow them to the letter.
Instead, it is better to simply provide examples,
show how to do it, and remind your child that their
end result does not have to match.
When they’re
finished, PBS urges parents to resist the urge to
ask "What
is It?” For most kids, art is representational.
Instead, describe what you see, “I like the use of
red and how it fills the whole page.” Even better,
ask them to tell you what they made and help them to
look deeper into the meaning of their art.
Remember to be
patient. For many disabled children, art is a place
where they can relax and express themselves. If they
sense any frustration or impatience from you, they
might
become anxious and it will cease to
be a pleasurable activity. Allow extra time for them
to finish and compliment them as they work.
Plan Ahead
Children with
disabilities need extra guidance, and you may be
required to adapt materials and activities to fit
their needs. For a child with hearing issues, give
instructions through sign language; for a visually
impaired child, let them touch objects as you give
directions.
You may need to
adapt art materials so they can do the project, like
pre-cutting paper for those with motor challenges or
allowing them to tear their own pieces instead of
using scissors. If a child has severe motor skills,
they might need
physical help creating their work.
Let them take the lead and tell you what materials
to use and where to place them.
ArtShopTherapy.com notes that if a child does not
understand the instructions, often they will be too
embarrassed to ask for help or
clarification. Take the time to make sure they
comprehend the directions and have multiple ways to
describe the task. Try breaking down the project
into smaller pieces and remind them that it’s not
about the end result.
Play to the
Senses
Use supplies
that engage the senses. Exploring textures through
touch is always popular among kids. Working with
items like clay, beads, yarn, and dough can be
incredibly
therapeutic. They also enhance motor
skills and improve hand-eye coordination. Do not shy
away from different textiles either, and use
different types of fabrics in a sewing project.
Sewing is also a great activity, as creating a
finished and functional piece such as a pillow or
bag can create a large sense of accomplishment.
HomeAdvisor
lists some helpful sewing resources.
Even music can
be explored through touch. Encourage kids to
visualize music through painting and drawing, which
will promote a higher level of thinking and can be
very soothing. Visually impaired kids need not miss
out; encourage them to feel the music through
speakers and instruments and ask them to describe it
to you.
However, be
aware of sensory aversion. Some children cannot
stand certain feelings or sounds and do not know how
to express this, so they will instead
act out. Be ready to switch
activities and materials if this happens.
It’s About
the Process
With so many
benefits to participating in the arts, it should be
a high priority in your child’s education. The arts
are for everyone. Although it might take a little
bit of extra effort, there is no reason your special
needs child should miss out. In the right
environment, they can flourish.
Photo courtesy
of
Pexels
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