Art Therapy

Art & Autism – A Gateway To Expression

Autism Connect advises parents of children with autism to manage their behavior and communication disorders through various therapists who are easily available in many countries.  Art therapy for autism spectrum disorder, with appropriate intervention programs, promotes a creative environment to treat functional, sensory, communication and social deficits observed in children.

Autism is a neurological condition that is present at birth (genetic) or develops later due to environmental factors (exposure to harmful toxins). Although there is no cure for this condition, strategies such as art therapy help children with autism to achieve the most out of life.  This therapy generates a flexible and relaxed attitude and improved learning and communicative skills in children on the spectrum. It also diminishes the core areas of problem such as restricted and repetitive behavior.

What Is Art Therapy For Autism?

Art therapy requires little or no verbal interaction to open doors to communication. Many individuals with autism have an astonishing capability to think visually. The therapists use this ability in processing memories helping them to speak their mind through visual expressions or pictures.

 Alternative To Verbal Communication

Autism is marked with impaired communication skill. Art therapy for kids with autism,  offers a way to express their feelings and ideas through images without struggling to use words.

To Hone The Social Skill

Individuals with autism fail to interpret voice tone, facial expression and feel uncomfortable connecting with others. When interacting with the therapist, they share a common interest in art-making, and build a powerful bond. When working together with other individuals, they understand the meaning of cooperation, patience and appreciation for other people work.  

Address Sensory Processing Disorder 

Art therapy for autism is the best channel to address sensory disorder. At the sessions, the children come in contact with the texture of the canvas and paints, bright fluorescent lights, the noise of the chalk when used on the board, and the whiff of various art materials. As art for them is a recreational activity, they are likely to tolerate the lights, textures, noise, and smell which they avoided previously.  

The Role Of Art Therapists 

Art therapists let individuals with autism indulge in narrative drawings to speak out their own feelings and frustrations. During the sessions, they become familiar with different art materials, such as color pencils and paint-brushes that help them to strengthen their grip and thus, enhance the fine motor skills. Thus, an art therapist provides opportunities to maintain self-control and respect the performances of others.

Benefits Of Art Therapy

Some of the advantages of art therapy for children with autism are:

  • Build enhanced communication and socialization skills
  • Ease stress and pain
  • Adapting to various sensory issues
  • Improved cognitive and motor skills
  • The gain of intellectual health
  • Increased confidence

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