(For

children ages 9-12 with social and communication challenges) Group Focus: * Encouraging communication and self- expression * Relationship skills and social awareness * Building self esteem, strengths and interests Group Process: Group art therapy offers children the opportunity to share, interact and create with peers as a means to foster social skills and intimate connection to others. Participants are led through art activities centered on exploring individual thoughts, feelings and unique interests. Each child will work independently on art pieces and will also have the opportunity to create an art piece as a group. Art media and forms of expression used include painting, drawing, collage, mosaics and abstractions. What is Art Therapy?: The Art Therapy approach to healing emphasizes the process of communicating issues, emotions and conflicts both verbally and non-verbally. Within the context of a therapeutic space, art can facilitate new understandings and insight, resolve conflicts, solve problems and help to formulate new perceptions that in turn lead to positive changes, growth and healing. Art Therapist: Lara Longo BFA, DTATI, is a Professional Art Therapist, with extensive experience working with children and adults with spectrum issues, developmental disabilities, anxiety and social and communication challenges. Group Requirements: Participants are children ages 9-12 with social and communication challenges. Time: 6 Wednesdays, September 21st October 26th, 3:30pm -5 pm Location: Kalico Healing Arts (downtown Peterborough ) $250 ( includes art supplies and a healthy drink and snack)

Group Art Therapy for Children