Using Children’s Art Classes As a Successful Treatment For Learning Disabilities

Used in conjunction with other treatment methods, children’s art classes can be a valuable treatment for learning disabilities (LDs). Dyspraxia and other complications concerning fine motor skills can gain significantly from drawing and painting. Children with difficulty expressing themselves or those who suffer from dysgaphia will also improve. Even children experiencing general difficulties with math or reading will grow emotionally and intellectually with a kids art class.

Fine Motor Skills

Children suffering from LDs with fine motor skills find great joy in children’s art classes. They can work on developing control of a pencil or paintbrush while not having to suffer from the pressures that come from a typical school environment. With a kids art class, perfect control is not required for them to create their work. In fact, many famous abstract painters are famous for their interesting lines. Best of all, each class ranges in difficulty and provides a mixture of concepts to ensure there is a medium to suit everyone’s abilities and tastes. For example, someone who suffers from severe fine motor problems might find it easier to start with painting or sculptures. For a child with only minor dyspraxia, drawing portraits or architecture may be more beneficial.

Expression

Many children with LDs either can’t or are afraid to express themselves and explore who they really are. Conditions such as dysgaphia can make self-expression difficult, leaving a child feeling frustrated and stressed. Other children deal with the stigma associated with learning disabilities by turning inward, closing themselves off from the rest of the world. With children’s art classes, these children can receive the nurturing and encouragement they need to let go and enjoy who they are. The kids can get away from the idea of a right or wrong answer and begin to discover the grey area between.

Cognitive Skills And Problem Solving

Children’s art classes give kids the opportunity learn, listen, follow directions, and deal with problems in a relaxed and peaceful setting. Because the lessons and techniques come from a skilled artist instead of a text book, children enjoy their classes and retain the information more quickly and easily. Kids art classes also eliminate the pressure of solving problems. In typical education classes, there is a specific set of steps that are taken to find the answer. In art, there might be a general set of rules to follow, but the precise outcome is completely up to the child.

Social Integration And Confidence

Children’s art classes give children a free, safe environment to work together and grow. It is also generally more relaxed than regular educational classes. Because of this, many children find it easier to interact with each other and can form friendships that go far beyond the kids art class. The ability to create and be successful only heightens this. The increased confidence children gain through art makes it easier for them to approach other children, increase their participation in a social environment, try new things, and take risks.

The skills and techniques gained through children’s art classes are only the beginning for children with learning disabilities. These classes give them the opportunity to work on their weaknesses without the pressure to keep up with the other children. They are also given the opportunity to take pride in their strengths and display them to the world. When used along with a solid treatment plan, kids art classes can become an import tool in the fight against learning disabilities.