Fostering art into your child’s life is an excellent way for them to define their emotions and express themselves. Children can better understand their feelings and how to cope with them through creative play and artwork. Whether your child shows an interest in visual arts, music, literature, or dance, art therapy is a great way for children with autism to express themselves non-verbally.

With a combination of applied behavior analysis (ABA) and art therapy, children with autism can learn various ways to express themselves and improve their self-esteem. Art therapy allows your child to experience multiple sensory stimuli and will enable them to socialize and improve developmental skills.

Let’s take a closer look and explore three ways art therapy benefits children with autism and how you can implement art therapy activities at home.

Art Can Help Improve Behavior Skills

Many people use art to express themselves and to reflect their feelings. Art therapy offers children with autism a way to work on their behavioral skills. Children can use their imagination and define their emotions through drawing when they engage in creative activities like finger painting or coloring.

Art therapy can also help them in stressful or anxiety-triggering situations. Instead of exhibiting problematic behaviors like hitting, your child can use a notepad to draw pictures or symbols to describe their feelings.

Can Play a Role in Assessing Your Child

Another way art therapy benefits children with autism is by playing a role in improving fine motor skills and cognitive development. Art therapy can help determine areas of improvement for your child and is a valuable way to instill new skills and learning opportunities. This treatment is an excellent and effective way for your child to receive educational lessons with structure and routine with less room for distraction.

Art Therapy Can Help Improve Self-Esteem

Implementing art therapy in your child’s routine offers an alternative way to build and improve their social and communication skills, enhance visual skills, and develop sensory integration. However, art therapy can also boost your child’s self-esteem. Art is highly subjective, and it’s important to remember that every child is unique, with various interests, strengths, and needs.

As they continue to work on their skills, you can help your child feel more seen and heard. Through art projects and imaginative activities, your child will feel more comfortable expressing themselves and interacting with others.

Activities To Try With Your Child

Sensory arts and activities can help children with autism in many ways, including staying regulated and connecting with others. We encourage parents to do creative activities with their children to help develop and stimulate creative expression. Below are a few activities to try at home:

• Sand Art
• Finger panting
• Puppet making
• Watercolor tub
• Ice cube drawings
• Play-Doh sculptures



At HANDS, we’re an autism pediatric therapy center that focuses on the success of our learners. We strive for our students to become independent superstars! Our team always looks forward to meeting new students and helping you along the journey. Contact us today for more information on how we can help.