I am very honored, to have been selected to work teaching the “Kaleidoscope: The Beauty of Autism”, an art making program designed especially for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). I have been involved with the program at The Coral Springs Museum since the beginning. I am one of the artist facilitators along with Isabel Perez Salazar and Lori Pratico. We interacted directly with the children. The kids have the freedom to explore and discover different art mediums and activities designed to stimulate their senses through a variety of art projects. It is set up so that they can choose what they would like to work on; we encourage play and social interaction. We allow space for them to realize their creative potential, without any behavioral corrections. All the while we observe, take notes and record any potential growth. I love seeing the children evolve from the time they walk through the door, when we ask, “How are you feeling?” Some are blue, some are just so - so, some are excited and happy, to - when they all leave feeling exhilarated. You can feel the shift in their energy, a huge transformation, they are relaxed and happy and of course there are those who never want to leave at all. Every class is a new learning experience for the teachers and for the kids; we are all growing together, discovering hidden talents from visual artistic skills, painting, drawing, sculpture, dancing, singing and storytelling to name a few. I love to read to kids when they arrive, it is my personal favorite, especially when the children start finishing the lines of the story for me, or making up the stories. This is one of many moments that I know how special all my students are. They have knowledge and powers far beyond… like a kaleidoscope, their minds are constantly changing patterns, shifting shapes and ideas that are dynamic. As they grow and I observe, I can see in their faces reflection, a beautiful colorful outcome.
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