intro
While researching art therapy and its connection to the neurodivergent brain, I was amazed by art’s significant role in regulating emotions and helping with focus. With this in mind, I had a whimsical idea. I took my entire family to the dollar store to pick out various arts and crafts supplies that would excite them. Our basket was filled with items like a glass jar, paint, glitter stickers, and more. When we returned home and spread out the supplies on the table, it was truly enchanting to witness the unique creative sparks in each family member’s mind. The first time, it was my idea, but the second time, it was my daughter’s.
The first time
My son started by painting a glass jar but ended up with paint on his hands and then on paper. He then began mixing colors and became excited when he discovered that blue and yellow make green, and red and blue make purple. I then realized that while I thought this was about art therapy and emotions, this project also helped him develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills. The way his brain started putting things together was truly remarkable. This was a great lesson for me in learning the power of working on an art project without limits.
The second time
The second time I watched my daughter take control, she was so excited to walk into that store and had a clear idea of what she wanted to create. I noticed that she veered a little from the project out of excitement, but her focus was there. She had a project in mind, and she was determined to do it. When we started working on the project, she set up the table and organized the supplies, then walked us through her plan and lead the project. This second experience once again showed me something unexpected. Art is also a great way to delve deeper into the entrepreneurial mindset that is frequently discussed in a neurodivergent brain by leading us through a project that she is passionate about.
Conclusion
Overall, this experience was enlightening. While it may not be done weekly or even monthly, it can be a great, affordable option for encouraging kids to step out of their comfort zone or gain confidence in taking charge of a project you do as a family.