In the beginning....
I just graduated college in May 08 with a degree in Art Education. By mid-summer I accepted my first art-teaching job. I was going to be teaching art to students with special needs at a specialized school. I had no idea what to expect on a daily basis but I jumped right in. Here is a snap shoot of what I walk into each day. In every room there are as many adults as there are students. Sometimes this is good, most times it’s a hindrance. Most of my students do not communicate through traditional channels and if they do the langue is very limited. The majority has some form of physical disability. Many cannot hold crayons or brushes in the usual way. Their hands may not grip or their arms could be folded up and stiff. I also have some students with severe behavior problems. Although I strive for independence almost all of my students work hand over hand with and aid.
Since the beginning I have turned to the Internet for ideas and help. I have found that it was a poor resource for my population of students. I became frustrated with the lack of information out there that I decided to start this blog. To reach other art teachers like me, to share ideas and learn from one another. I will be sharing my project ideas and tools I use in the classroom and I hope you will share yours.
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8 comments:
I have been building an art program for individuals with disabilities for the past three years. I work with a huge population of adults with disabilities. I teach art and art concepts to over 250 individuals. I to have found it difficult to find information on the population I work with, and could use some support and evidence of success. I am collecting information to write a proposal for some additional help for the program. I have had such success that everyone wants more. I by myself cannot take on more classes and am already. Any pointers?
Kristen,
Sorry I didn't see your comment until now, if you still want Ideas and more resources send me an email at fakemidnight@gmail.com, I would love to help.
Love your blog! The artwork is beautiful!!! I have taught elementary adaptive art for a few years, but currently am not this year. I shared your blog w/all the art teachers in my district. My blog has a few adaptive lessons, but they seem more crafty sometimes. I love how your really look like art you want to frame! I really struggled w/coming up with projects they could be successful with and looked nice. Thank you for all the wonderful ideas!!
Jenny
artolazzi.blogspot.com
I love the way you structure these lessons for special needs students by creating collaborative art pieces. Its a great way to introduce new materials and ideas. Good for you!
what a great blog, just been perusing it :) Some lovely art ideas here
I am so thrilled to have found your blog. I too have found it hard to find resources for beautiful artwork that my students would be able to create.
Thank you for sharing.
Your blog is very useful! There aren't many resources for our students. I work with both regular and special education children throughout my week, most are inclusion classes. I do have two classes of non verbal students. Their fine motor skills are weak and it is hard to come up with projects every week that challenge them, but look nice. Thank you for your blog and for sharing!! I will pass on your blog to the other art staff members in my district. Thank again!!
Your blog is very useful! There aren't many resources for our students. I work with both regular and special education children throughout my week, most are inclusion classes. I do have two classes of non verbal students. Their fine motor skills are weak and it is hard to come up with projects every week that challenge them, but look nice. Thank you for your blog and for sharing!! I will pass on your blog to the other art staff members in my district. Thank again!!
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