Media: Papermaking
Population: Children with emotional or behavioral disorders (EBD)
I chose this population because children with EBD often have difficulties with impulse control and frustration tolerance (Lee, 2016). As a result, they get overwhelmed when they encounter difficulties, such as a small mistake, and end up tearing their artwork (Lee, 2016). I worked with this population for four years and some students in crisis sometimes ended up ripping the work of peers as well. The papermaking process allows them to take these frustrations and upsets to create something new! It could potentially become a restorative process for a peer whose artwork got destroyed and could be used as a surface for further art therapy interventions. I once observed an art teacher who had brought in a hand crank blender for her students, so children can become physically engaged with the process, letting out excess energy and/or emotions, while reducing risk of harm that an electric blender could present with this population. The process is quite forgiving, which would allow children with EBD to foster resilience and patience.
I have made paper before, but it was years ago. I enjoyed the process of making paper and think that it could be enjoyable for children with EBD as well as long as I can accommodate any sensory needs, which was not something I thought about when I first made paper. For example, using warm water vs cold water was a very different experience and chunky pulp vs thin pulp was as well. Additions such as scents, colors, and flowers could enhance the experience depending on the child. Some might be bothered by the sound of ripping paper while others might enjoy the destructive and symbolic process (Peace Paper Project, n.d.).
References
Lee, H. (2016). The implications of a STEAM-based art curriculum on students with EBD (Unpublished master's thesis). Moore College of Art & Design.
Peace Paper Project (n.d.). Papermaking as Art Therapy. Retrieved November 15, 2020, from http://www.peacepaperproject.org/arttherapy.htmlMedia: Papermaking
Population: Children with emotional or behavioral disorders (EBD)