The idea of using art therapy for autistic children is not new. Clinicians and researchers have worked hard to help us better understand autism, and as our understanding grows, we can find helpful supports and strategies for people with autism.
Art therapy for autism can help children develop ways to cope with big feelings, regulate their emotions and navigate tricky social situations, while supporting their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.
This post gives parents and teachers of autistic children helpful information on the benefits of art therapy for people with autism, plus art therapy activities to build into their children’s week.
Understanding Autism
Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference that a person is born with. It shapes how they communicate, interact socially and experience the world, and often includes deep, focused interests and repetitive behaviors.
Autism looks different in every person. Common traits include communication differences, sensory sensitivities and repetitive behaviors. Autism is diagnosed at one of three levels, based on how much support a person needs (these are sometimes informally described as mild, moderate and severe, although support needs are more accurate).
Art therapy can help with some of the challenges people on the autism spectrum face. It offers autistic people a safe way to express their thoughts, feelings and emotions creatively, which can build self-awareness, self-expression and confidence.
What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a form of mental health support that uses creative media, such as painting, drawing, sculpting and other forms of self-expression, to support wellbeing, focus and communication.
Art therapy for children with autism, and for people with autism of any age, uses visual arts to help them understand and express their feelings and thoughts, without relying on words.
Art therapy comes in different forms, depending on each person’s needs. A therapist might invite someone to make a sculpture or paint a picture that shows how they feel. The most important thing is that it lets them express themselves openly. The focus is on enjoying the process of making art rather than the finished product.
The art therapist offers gentle direction while encouraging children with autism to explore their thoughts and emotions. The finished piece can also become a starting point for conversation and reflection.
Is Art Therapy Appropriate for Autism?
Yes, for many autistic people. Art therapy for autism is a good fit when your child enjoys art or is curious about it, and when sessions follow their pace, sensory needs and interests. It won’t change who your child is, and research is still limited, so think of it as one support among several, ideally with a qualified, autism-informed art therapist.
How Art Therapy for Autism Works
Art therapy for autism gives autistic people a safe, supportive space to make art. Art therapists may offer materials like crayons, clay or paint and encourage the person to create whatever they like.
Through art, autistic people can express feelings in ways that may be hard to put into words.
Benefits of Art Therapy for People with Autism
There is still limited research on art therapy for autism, and much of it is made up of case studies describing observed effects. However, the observations to date suggest art therapy can have real benefits for many autistic people.
Studies suggest art therapy can benefit people with autism in different areas of life, including physically, mentally, emotionally and socially.
Here are the main benefits of art therapy for autistic people:
Communicating through drawing and painting lets autistic children express themselves in an open-ended way. Sharing thoughts and feelings through artwork gives them a healthy outlet to explore their emotions.
Many people with autism find social cues like gestures and facial expressions harder to read. Making art together gives autistic people a relaxed way to connect with art therapists, family members and peers, with the artwork as a shared focus.
Looking at each other’s work can help children see things from others’ perspectives, and group art projects are a natural way to practice turn-taking, sharing and cooperation.
2. Supports emotional regulation
Autistic children sometimes find it hard to manage their emotions, especially in stressful situations. Emotional regulation is about noticing feelings and finding ways to bring yourself back to calm.
Art therapy can help children with autism identify and express their emotions in a healthy, safe way. Making art can become a great coping strategy when they feel upset or anxious.
3. Builds motor skills and learning
Art therapists often offer autistic children a range of art materials, and each activity helps build fine motor skills, which are important for drawing, writing, sculpting and painting. This can be especially helpful for autistic children who find coordination harder.
Practicing these skills through art can build hand-eye coordination and dexterity. Through art and craft activities, children with autism can strengthen the hand skills they use to grasp and manipulate objects, use a fork and spoon, and hold a pencil, which supports independence in daily life.
4. Helps with sensory overload
Children with autism often have sensory sensitivities. Art therapy offers a safe space to explore different materials and sensations at their own pace, and to discover which textures they enjoy and which they’d rather avoid.
The repetitive, calming nature of some art activities can promote relaxation and ease anxiety. By respecting sensory needs, art therapy can help improve quality of life for people with autism, and help children discover their sensory preferences.
5. Provides emotional support
Art therapy uses the visual arts to explore emotions and encourage self-expression, which can support mental health and reduce stress and anxiety.
With the support of a professional therapist, art therapy can help autistic people identify what stresses them and develop coping strategies that work for them.
6. Engages the senses
Multi-sensory art activities, such as finger painting, working with clay, or combining art with music, let autistic children explore touch, sound and movement in an enjoyable way. For example, drawing while listening to music or using simple instruments alongside art can support sensory exploration and communication.
7. Inspires creativity
Art therapy can give autistic people a healthy way to express themselves, especially if they are non-speaking or minimally speaking.
Giving children with autism a safe space to express their feelings and experiences also helps parents and carers nurture their child’s artistic talents.
Over time, children with autism may become more comfortable using art to express their feelings. Art can become a way for parents, carers and teachers to connect with their children beyond words, and to understand their view of the world.
8. Strengthens the Parent-Child Relationship
Strong relationships from a young age build resilience and a solid foundation for children to grow.
Art therapy lets children and parents work on fun art activities together, which helps children express themselves and strengthens the bond between them. Parents can gain a better understanding of their child’s inner world by using the child’s artwork as a gentle conversation starter.
When Should Autistic Children Start Art Therapy Activities?
Autistic children as young as two or three can enjoy and benefit from art therapy activities. Starting early can be helpful, as art supports communication and connection as children grow.
You can also talk to a qualified art therapist, or other parents of autistic children, for advice on when to start art therapy sessions.
Are Art Therapy Sessions for Autism Structured?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to art therapy for autism, because every autistic person has different needs.
Art therapy can be structured and goal-oriented, or free-flowing, and in group sessions it can encourage positive interaction among autistic peers.
Some children with autism find structured sessions helpful, while warm-up activities help others settle into the environment. Letting children know when the session will end, rather than ending it suddenly, can also ease anxiety.
Art therapists may also limit the number of materials on offer, as too many options can be overwhelming. Some materials won’t suit every child, so some trial and error may be needed.
Art Therapy Activities for Autistic Children
Parents and carers can try art therapy activities at home. Professional art therapy is usually delivered in clinics or centers, but you can nurture your child’s creativity at home with these fun art therapy activities for autism:
1. Coloring or drawing
Simple coloring and drawing activities can promote relaxation, self-expression and the development of fine and gross motor skills.
2. Scribbling
Free scribbling lets autistic children create images that express their inner world. Adults can offer materials, models and gentle guidance to support creative thinking.
3. Collage making
Collage making involves choosing pictures from magazines or newspapers and gluing them onto paper in any arrangement. It’s low pressure, there is no wrong way to do it, and it can support emotional expression and sensory exploration.
4. Modeling clay or sculpting
Many children enjoy modeling clay for hours. Touching, rolling and squeezing clay builds fine motor skills, and art therapists find that sculpting can help autistic kids with attention, focus and calm.
5. Painting
Painting gives autistic children a healthy outlet for creativity and emotion, and can lead to brilliant and meaningful pieces.
6. Photography
Children can take photos to show their inner world and notice their surroundings. Photography is a powerful way for autistic children to express their creative side, share what matters to them and show you the world through their eyes.
7. Drawing to music
Music offers a non-verbal way for autistic children to express ideas and feelings. Rhythms and melodies can inspire children to draw or paint how the music makes them feel.
8. Sensory bottles
Making sensory bottles can help autistic kids self-regulate and meet their sensory needs. Whether you use beads, glitter or other eye-catching objects, sensory bottles are an enjoyable activity that also builds fine motor skills. Seal the lid well when you’re finished.
Craft Activities for Autistic Adults
Art isn’t just for children. Many autistic adults find creative activities calming and rewarding. Ideas include adult coloring books, watercolor or acrylic painting, knitting or crochet, pottery, LEGO and model building, embroidery, digital art and photography. Repetitive, absorbing crafts can be a great way to unwind after a busy day, and a craft linked to a deep interest can be especially enjoyable.
Finding an Art Therapist Near You
Want to find an art therapist for your autistic child but don’t know where to start? Keep these tips in mind:
- Do your research: Search for “art therapy for kids with autism”, “art therapy for autism near me” or “art therapy for autistic children” in your area, and check whether local clinics, hospitals or schools offer art therapy.
- Check qualifications: In Australia, look for an art therapist registered with ANZACATA (the Australian, New Zealand and Asian Creative Arts Therapies Association). Some art therapy can be funded through the NDIS.
- Get referrals: Personal recommendations are a great way to find good art therapists, so ask other parents of autistic children.
- Choose the right fit: Consider the therapist’s qualifications, experience with autism, location and approach.
Conclusion
Autism art therapy can be a wonderful support for children and adults with autism. Through drawing, painting, sculpting and modeling, autistic people can express themselves, build skills and grow in confidence.
Art therapy can be a creative and fulfilling part of a wider support plan for people on the autism spectrum.
Must Read
- Activities for Autistic Children
- Play Therapy for Children with Autism
- Therapy Support for Autistic Children in Home
- Autism Teaching Strategies – How to Teach Autistic Children
Special Educator of over 15 years. Autism specialist, Sign Language interpreter, and Autism Mommy. Currently working on my Master’s in ABA and love learning more about sensory needs, and assisting families on their journey through Autism. In my free time you will find me outside, and traveling the world. My bucket list and travels will always consist of hiking and National Parks!
