Working Through the Senses: Art Therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorders Students

Abstract

In the recent years, multiple studies have demonstrated the importance of teaching Art to children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). ASD affect symbolic and language skills in children, and imply some limitations in the complex and stimulating field of social relationships. Learners with ASD require a well structured environment. For the purpose of this study we propose Art Therapy as a therapeutic process to develop our students’ social relationships. In that manner, they will be able to interact functionally and successfully within their social context within which they belong. By using Art Therapy action programme ASD children are expected to develop social and communication skills through emotions and artistic creations as a way to train conversational abilities, anticipate situations and understand emotions and actions.