Adapted Arts for All
During one of our class periods, Dixie Trevarthen came to show us some of the adaptive equipment offered by an amazing organization called Arts for All. The equipment is used to promote social interaction and occupational engagement for children with disabilities. The three activities we were able to participate in were adapted sidewalk chalk, pogo painting, and press painting. All three activities were very fun and innovative. The most exciting aspect of the Arts for All experience was to learn that all of the adaptive equipment is available for free through the organization. This is such a great recourse to have as an occupational therapist, especially one working with children. After this experience, I am excited to get the opportunity to find ways to incorporate such equipment in treatment sessions in order to stimulate creativity as well as productivity.
I believe that the use of this equipment in the classroom is of significant importanc. Adaptive art equipment can be used to help foster social interactions and play between children with disabilities and their peers. Research shows that children with physical disabilities often have social impairments and play deprivation caused by a lack of environmental engagement (Richardson, 2002). This deprivation may lead to secondary social, emotional, and psychological disabilities. As an occupational therapy student, I believe it is the responsibility of therapists not only to promote physical wellbeing, but also to address issues of social interaction and play. These are integral aspects of childhood and healthy development.
By the end of my three Arts for All experiences, I was inspired to find creative ways to implement treatment plans. I was also motivated to spread the word about Arts for All to assure that everyone is taking full advantage of the great opportunities they are able to offer. All school-based occupational therapists need to facilitate social interactions which include the client, adults, and peers in order to promote healthy socialization of children with physical disabilities (Richardson, 2002). The Arts for All adaptive equipment provides an excellent door to just this kind of multidimensional therapy.
References
Richardson, P. K. (2002). The school as social context: Social interaction patterns of children with physical disabilities. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 56, 296–304.
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