How Art Therapy Supports Kids with ADHD and Autism | Kerry Evitts Art

For many children, art is a way to explore their creativity and have fun. But for kids with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and autism, art can be so much more than just painting or drawing — it can be a pathway to understanding, connection, and growth. This is where art therapy comes in.

What is Art Therapy?

Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses creative processes — such as drawing, painting, sculpting, or collage — to help children express themselves, explore their emotions, and develop important life skills. A trained art therapist guides the process, ensuring that each session is tailored to the child’s needs.

It’s not about creating a masterpiece. It’s about the process, not the product. The colours, shapes, and materials become a language for feelings that can sometimes be hard to put into words.

Why It Works for Kids with ADHD

Children with ADHD often experience difficulties with focus, impulse control, and emotional regulation. Art therapy can help by:

  • Boosting attention span – Creative activities provide a calm, engaging environment that encourages children to focus for longer periods.
  • Encouraging self-expression – Art allows kids to communicate thoughts and feelings without relying solely on words, which can be freeing.
  • Providing a sensory outlet – Using different materials like clay, paint, or textured paper can help channel energy in a constructive way.
  • Building confidence – Completing an artwork gives a tangible sense of accomplishment.

Why It Works for Kids with Autism

For children on the autism spectrum, communication and social interaction can be challenging. Art therapy offers:

  • A safe space to communicate – Many autistic children find visual expression easier than verbal conversation.
  • Sensory engagement – Working with art materials can be calming and help with sensory integration.
  • Emotional exploration – Art gives children tools to identify and express emotions in a non-threatening way.
  • Social skills practice – Group art therapy sessions can gently encourage interaction and collaboration.

The Role of the Art Therapist

An art therapist isn’t just an art teacher — they’re trained to interpret the themes, symbols, and choices a child makes in their work. They create a supportive environment where the child feels understood and safe, adapting each activity to suit their unique needs, energy levels, and communication style.

A Gentle Bridge to Connection

For parents and carers, art therapy can be a gentle bridge to understanding their child’s inner world. It can spark conversations, reveal new ways of relating, and build moments of shared joy.

Kerry Evitts’ art therapy sessions are designed with warmth, patience, and a belief in the power of creativity to transform lives. Whether it’s through splashes of paint, tiny details in a drawing, or the feel of clay in small hands, art therapy gives children a voice that’s uniquely their own.

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