The Benefits of Creativity for Neurodiverse Individuals & those with Learning Disabilities
When I first moved my Dad to live with us to take care of him due to his worsening dementia, I sought various groups and local support through the connections made via my GP's Social Prescribing service. Many were hit and miss, but one of the most surprising hits for both my Dad and me was a project called Arts for Brain Health, supported by Keighley Creative.
You can see some of my Dad’s creations in the picture above. It had a profound effect on my father’s well-being and mine, as it was something we could do together. It didn’t matter how well things turned out; what was important were the therapeutic benefits made through the calmness that creativity provided, shutting off the day-to-day, and the connections made with the group. And this is what has inspired today's blog.
Neurodiversity and creativity are intertwined in profound ways, offering unique opportunities for individuals with learning disabilities, neurodivergent traits, and those supporting them. I was amazed at how my father, who has vascular dementia, was able to engage in the creative exercises in a local group previously run by Keighley Creative.
In this article, I’ll attempt to describe the benefits of creativity for these groups, provide some examples of techniques and creative exercises, explore the purpose and therapeutic benefits of these exercises, and discuss how they should be introduced in a relational and therapeutic way.
Benefits of Creativity for Neurodiverse Individuals
Creative expression plays a pivotal role in supporting individuals with neurodivergent traits and learning disabilities. It offers a non-verbal outlet for communication, promotes self-expression, and fosters a sense of empowerment. Through creative activities, individuals can explore their emotions, enhance their problem-solving skills, and build self-confidence. Moreover, creativity provides a platform for individuals to engage with the world on their own terms, celebrating their unique perspectives and abilities.
Step-by-Step Examples of Creative Techniques and Exercises
Visual Art: Encourage individuals to express themselves through drawing, painting, or sculpting. Provide a variety of materials to accommodate different sensory needs.
Music Therapy: Utilize music to support emotional regulation and social interaction. Engage in activities such as drumming circles, song writing, or listening to music that resonates with individual experiences.
Drama and Movement: Explore storytelling, role-playing, or guided movement exercises to encourage self-discovery and interpersonal connection.
Purpose and Therapeutic Benefits of Creative Exercises
The purpose of these creative exercises is to provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings. Through these activities, individuals can develop coping strategies, improve their communication skills, and cultivate a sense of belonging. The therapeutic benefits encompass emotional regulation, sensory integration, and the promotion of positive mental health.
Introducing Exercises in a Relational and Therapeutic Manner
When introducing creative exercises, it is essential to establish a relational and therapeutic approach. This involves building trust, respecting individual preferences, and adapting activities to suit specific needs. Practitioners should create a nurturing environment where individuals feel valued and understood. By fostering a collaborative relationship, practitioners can guide individuals through the creative process, offering validation and support along the way.
The intersection of neurodiversity and creativity holds immense potential for personal growth and well-being. By embracing creative expression as a therapeutic tool, we can honour the diverse experiences of neurodiverse individuals and create meaningful opportunities for self-discovery and connection. This article aims to inspire practitioners, caregivers, and advocates to integrate creative approaches into their support frameworks, recognizing the profound impact of creativity on the lives of those with neurodivergent traits and learning disabilities.
Here are some useful free resources and websites to support the intersection of neurodiversity and creativity:
Neurodiversity Hub - This website provides a variety of resources for employers, including "Creative Differences," a handbook for embracing neurodiversity in the creative industries. It also offers information on neurodiversity at work, sensory processing and design, and high-impact neurodiversity training solutions.
Uptimize - Uptimize offers neurodiversity training solutions and resources for employers, including articles on the benefits of hiring neurodiverse staff and tips for inclusive recruitment practices.
Arts for Brain Health - Is a local Keighley-based program that offers personalized arts-based interventions to people living with dementia and professional caregivers. The project delivers creative workshops using visual arts, imaginative story-making, and other artistic interventions to provide a coping mechanism for affected individuals and reduce stigma associated with dementia.
References:
Davis, G. (2004). Creativity Is Forever. New York, NY: Kendall Hunt Publishing.
Sedgwick, J. A., Merwood, A., & Asherson, P. (2019). The power of neurodiversity: Unleashing the advantages of your differently wired brain. London, UK: Hachette Books.
Baron-Cohen, S. (2020). The Pattern Seekers: A New Theory of Human Invention
Penguin Books..
Brosnan M, Lewton M, Ashwin C. (2016). Reasoning on the Autism Spectrum: A Dual Process Theory Account. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 46(6), 2115-2125.
Boot N, Nevicka B, Baas M. (2020). Creativity in ADHD: Goal-Directed Motivation and Domain Specificity. Journal of Attention Disorders, 24(13), 1857-1866.
