Why children with autism need art therapy now, more than ever?

Children need art and art breeds on childlike enthusiasm. That is always the case and may remain so for the times to come. But while normal people are unhindered in their progression from getting to a stage of creative excellence having been amateurs once, what about others? What about those who are hindered by a natural shortcoming? What about those talented children who are mired by autism?

Despite possessing talent, how are to students on the slow side of learning to cope in a field where their talents may find manifestation? It has been noted that for students challenged by autism, art therapy is the way forward. It’s the go-to measure in many a cases that could lead to significant improvements, especially in creative expression.

Leading researchers in the field of autism education, such as Temple Grandin suggest that those afflicted by autism tend to think more creatively and can express themselves visually. Recently speaking to a famous arts platform (online), art therapist Theresa Van Lith shared with Artsy that, “children with autism tend to think in pictures.” So does this further enhance an already present artistic talent? There is reason to believe, absolutely.

One gets to see a natural progression in the way children with autism use to communicate what occurs in their world and surroundings. And therefore, it’s not hard to fathom reasons behind which more and more people in the west are pushing their kids to take to the arts. A new brimming profession seems to be on the surge. The job of an art therapist is to work cohesively in shaping the visual and expressive communication of those challenged by autism. Kids comprise the group comprehensively.

From a basic human standpoint the need for a child to express herself or himself is sacrosanct especially when cognitive learning and natural abilities are challenged. But while art can definitely fine-tune and tinker impairments stemming from lack of normal communication, a broad problem area challenges kids suffering from autism:

Social-communicative behaviour

Flexibility

Self-image

Gladly, back in November 2017, an important art-based research on the melange of art therapy and autistic kids suggested art therapy could have an affect toward reducing the impact of behavioural problems in children that are suffering from autism. While on the one hand regular art sessions whether at school or home or at both have been noted to have improved problems associated with mood and behaviour, it’s also led to an increase in self-confidence.

The latter is always crucial for children tackling an intrinsic, cerebral problem. And must it be said that thankfully parents now need not bother that much for a moment of reprieve is here. Art therapy can begin for young children with autism as early at age 2-3. Many therapists leading themselves to follow what they call is a client-driven approach, helping themselves by helping the children lead them into doing what they desire in artistic expression.

Narrative drawings, for that matter, are pivotal for controlling a child’s behaviour as it lets him and her to emote feelings and let go of frustrations through drawing. The world may not be strangulated emotionally anymore provided parents, children with autism and art therapists work in tandem to shape a future where fervour in art is complemented with rightful guidance.