Art therapy allows children with autism to express themselves

Patrick Fitzgerald on flickr

Most children with autism struggle with communication and social skills. Getting your child to express his or her emotions is a struggle for many parents. 

Children with autism are extremely frustrated if they cannot express their emotions. Giving these children the chance to paint or draw can ease this frustration.

Painting and other art forms allow kids with autism to express their emotions in a fun and creative way. Children use art to express what they want and need. Even children who are verbal may feel safer expressing their feelings through art.

A study by the University of Lagos examined how effective art therapy was with children who have autism.  It concluded, "multiple art therapy interventions have been identified as effective in assisting children with autism to communicate through artwork."

\Nemo on Pixabay

Art or art therapy is used to teach children with autism social and communication skills. There is a formalized field of art therapy and therapists who work with children who have autism and other learning difficulties.

Kate Lacour, an ABA therapist, describes art therapy as a "natural fit for autism." She states that art therapy is beneficial for emotional expression, social skills and sensory processing problems. 

When you have a rainy day this summer, give your child paints or crayons and see how she responds to art. Some schools found art very beneficial for work with children who have autism.

If you are considering art therapy for your child, look for a qualified therapist with experience helping children with autism.

For more information about art and autism, go to:

The Value of Art Therapy for Those on the Autism Spectrum

Painting gives children with autism a chance to shine

©Mary M Conneely T/A Advocacy in Action