I’ve gotta say, this latest offering of guests posts has been pretty wonderful. They give me a little extra time between posts and provide you with some fresh content with new perspectives.

That’s a win-win in my book. And I’m always glad to add another entree to my big ol’ book of wins!

This one is from Anya Willis, and you can find more about her and what she’s up to at her website FitKids.

And now, the post…

The Arts Can Have a Positive Impact on Children With Disabilities

Just a few generations ago, people mistakenly believed that kids with physical and cognitive disabilities could not enjoy many of the same things as everyone else. We now know that this is a huge myth, and kids with disabilities may even benefit more from pursuits like drawing and dancing than their traditionally-abled friends and family members.

Today we bring you just one of many posts meant to inspire creativity in people of all ages and stages.

The Benefits

There are many benefits of getting children involved in the arts. For those with special needs, making music can enhance rhythm and promote a new way to communicate. Creative writing is another artistic avenue that can help children with developmental delays to express themselves in a positive manner. Drawing and painting, according to Center Stage Music, is another form of positive self-expression. Each of these can be used to promote manual dexterity and help children better maintain their focus in all situations.

Getting Ready

Before you dive into teaching arts to your little ones, decide what, exactly, you want to begin with. You’ll need a larger space if you’re going to do dance, but, for drawing, sculpting, or even making music, a spare bedroom turned multi-purpose craft room will work. If you make any type of significant modifications to your home, keep notes, and if you choose to sell in the future, make sure that the appraiser is aware of these updates. You also want to gather your materials. If you’re concerned that your child might accidentally ingest your medium, use non-toxic art supplies, which the Gentle Nursery blog explains utilize water-based and natural pigments.

Options Abound

There are many different types of arts that your kids might consider. In addition to those mentioned above, you might also consider:

• Poetry

• Sculpting

• Painting

• Graphic design

• Architecture

• Interior design

Depending on your child’s age and where you live, they may have the option to do some of these as part of their elective classes in high school.

Long-Term Benefits

More than just helping your children refine their skills, teaching and learning the arts can have four-reaching benefits for you and your family. For example, if you find that you’re skilled at teaching, you might open your own business to help other kids and their families get involved. If you choose this route, make it an official business by filing for your LLC. Use a creative name, and then check local regulations before you file – you do not have to use an attorney to launch an LLC, and it will save you money to DIY.

Something else to consider here is that early exposure to the arts may open potential career paths for your children. Indeed.com lists many different types of creative careers, including video editor, art consultant, and web developer. Your children may even write their own book, become a famous singer, or find their future in interpretive dance. The point is that you never know what one simple door opening might mean for your child’s future.

If you’re still looking for inspiration, look no further than these art programs catered specifically to kids with disabilities. You will no doubt find many similar options available in your home town. Remember, children with disabilities are every bit as capable of being creative and enjoying the arts as their typical peers. Plus, you may set them up for success, and you might even find a new career path for yourself along the way.

The Creative Life blog is the place to share all things having to do with art and creativity in all its forms.