Play and Expression in Inclusion: An Expressive Arts Perspective

Expressive arts have the power to transform learning for neurodivergent children, including those with autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities. For children who struggle with traditional communication, creative expression is a way to connect and make sense of the world around them. Whether through music, movement, visual arts, or drama, the hands-on nature of art provides an outlet for energy into creating something tangible – fostering confidence and a feeling of accomplishment.

1. ? ? Music and dance movement:?

The rhythmic nature of music can help to encourage focus and attention. Music’s repetitive patterns can provide a structure for children. Additionally, dancing to songs could help develop body awareness, motor skills, and improve spatial orientation.??

During “circle time” where we work on group skills, action songs such as “the floor is lava” or the “stomp/wiggle songs” are a favourite with our younger students! While also bringing an element of fun, such activities can help to develop social skills, regulate emotions, and improve attention spans. The predictability in rhythm and dance routines can also be grounding for the students.?

2. ? ? Drama/Improvisation:?

In cases where students struggle with impulse control and social interactions, drama can be an excellent opportunity to practice new behaviours in a structured, supportive setting. Social cues can be taught by stepping into pretend characters and acting out different emotions and responses.?

In our classes, animal puppets are used to teach appropriate emotional expression. For example, “Now the elephant is tired, so he will lie down and rest!” or “The monkey is happy so he’s going to jump around!”

3. ? ? Visual Arts:?

Art-based activities could also help improve cognitive skills by stimulating creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Drawing, collage making, finger painting and pegboards can also be used to work on spatial awareness and fine motor skills.?

While doing a finger painting activity with our class, our students could mix colours, observe the results, enjoy the tactile sensation of paint on their hands, all while working on their natural experimentation and decision-making skills.?

4. ? ? Multisensory Approaches:?

Learning and expression through different modalities can be a great way for students to process information and stay engaged in the learning process. Whether it's through tactile materials in art-making, rhythmic movements in dance, or auditory stimuli in music, these strategies provide a more holistic approach to teaching.?

For example, while teaching the alphabets, multimodal approaches to teaching have been a great success! We use sensory boards with engraved letters for a more tactile experience, the child is also simultaneously asked to trace the letters in kinetic sand or write it down on a worksheet while sounding the letter out. This method helps in bringing sensory integration in the learning process.

It is essential to recognize the power of play and the arts in supporting the development and inclusion of neurodivergent children. These creative outlets offer a safe space where children can explore emotions and connect with the world around them. Through play and expressive arts, they build confidence and ultimately gain a sense of belonging.

When we embrace these approaches, we create environments where every child—regardless of their abilities—is empowered to thrive and is celebrated for their individuality and creativity.?