Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is not a one-size-fits-all diagnosis. Each person with ASD has their own different story. April is the official month of Autism Acceptance. This month is dedicated to helping us all understand the various spectrums of autism. And now, Leading Home Care wants to inform our community about some fun projects to encourage those with autism to express themselves!
Sensory Arts & Crafts Ideas for Individuals with Autism
Depending on the severity of a diagnosis, autism can make it difficult for individuals to communicate with others both socially and verbally. Art is a great outlet for those with ASD to communicate in a way that requires little to no verbal interaction. Improvements in thinking symbolically, responding to facial expressions, managing sensory issues, and enhancing motor skills are only some of the possible outcomes when people with ASD create art.
Plastic Bag Painting
Sense Engaged: Touch, Hearing
This mess-free activity allows artists to mix and squish paint colors in a plastic bag. This can help them get used to the texture of paint in a controlled way!
Personalized T-Shirts
Sense Engaged: Sight
Plain shirts are no fun! With this project, artists can decorate a shirt with anything they want using crayons, pens, markers, paint, and more
Bubble Wrap Painting
Sense Engaged: Hearing, Sight, Touch
Wrap your artist’s feet in bubble wrap, lead them to a pan of paint, then allow them to roam around an old bedsheet. The satisfying pops of the bubbles and scattering colors beneath their feet will make this project memorable!
Styrofoam Sculptures
Sense Engaged: Hearing, Sight, Touch
All you need is toothpicks and Styrofoam for this project. Then, connect the pieces to make whatever comes to your imagination!
Rain Sticks
Senses Engaged: Hearing
Soothing sounds, like rain, can ease the nerves of those who may have sensory overload! In this project, artists create rain sticks using paper towel rolls, rice, paper to cover the ends, and tape to keep the paper in place.
Art Has No Boundaries
It’s important to note that there is no right or wrong way to make art. The art projects above allow individuals with autism to show their creative side and stimulate their senses without any limitations.
Did you know Leading Home Care offers in-person art classes for clients through St. Pierre’s Center for the Arts? Located within our Lafayette office, these classes are designed to improve the quality of life for our clients through artistic expression. And coming soon, we are excited to begin distributing art projects to the homes of those who want to participate but are unable to come to classes!
Embracing and Accepting Differences
Whether it’s April or any other month, Autism Acceptance is a cause that is always on our hearts. Remember that each day is a new opportunity to embrace everyone you meet knowing that what makes us different is also what makes the world beautiful. If your loved one lives with autism and would benefit from a caregiver who values art and fun, contact your local Leading Home Care office today!
