In a message dated 1/7/05 12:37:02 AM, arizkma@yahoo.com writes:
> I know the power of art therapy personally or with children, and I am so
> happy that I was able to take the time to think what would help me through this
> extremely difficult time in my life.
>
About eight years ago a third grade teacher in my school came down before her
class visited the art room. She clued me in that Jessica's cat had died
shortly before Jessica had to catch the school bus and that she had arrived at
school quite distraught. When the class came down and everybody got going on
their independent work I had time to sit with her for awhile and she told me
what had happened. I said that this was a big change in her family and asked
her if she wanted to draw or paint about it. She went to the drawing table,
collected materials and set herself up at the slanted drawing board. Wiping
tears she made several drawings in the course of the class, including a
very strong one showing her cat in heaven, wearing a crown, shining and
surrounded by great cat snacks and toys. She left the class still sad; her teacher
allowed Jessica to continue drawing in the classroom and she was able to get
through the rest of the day peacefully.
Our students, like all of us, come to our classes with their whole home lives
in their hearts. The art room can and should be a potentially theraputic
environment for children who choose to make use of it. It is a gift to teach the
healing power of art and Kathleen's class has experienced this.
thanks for sharing that story.
Kathy Douglas
