For many autistic students, structured exciting activities and national days of celebration can be a source of joy and provide valuable opportunities for learning. Engaging in activities that capture their interest and curiosity can help them stay focused and motivated, which can improve their overall learning experience. 

Below are some activities that took place in the weeks leading up to half term. For more information about what is happening at Sybil Elgar School please see our special events calendar. 

Pantomime 

Students at Sybil Elgar enjoyed a wonderful pantomime performance of Sleeping Beauty by M&M Productions on Friday 20th January. This classic literature adaptation is aimed to expose children to stories by bringing the stories to life. 

Pantomime and drama can be a positive educational tool for autistic young people. It can help with the development of non-verbal communication skills, improve emotional expression and understanding, foster creativity and imagination, provide a sense of structure and routine, and promote teamwork and cooperation. Pantomime is a fun and engaging activity that can be incorporated into an educational program to provide a variety of benefits for autistic young people.

National Handwriting Day

Our students at Havelock Road really enjoyed taking part in different workshops to celebrate National Handwriting Day on Monday 23 January. 

Using pen and paper can have several positive educational benefits for autistic young people. It can help develop fine motor skills, improve focus and attention, enhance memory and learning, promote creativity and self-expression. 

The physical act of writing can also provide a calming sensory experience for some autistic young people. The tactile feedback of pen on paper can be soothing and grounding, which can help reduce anxiety and stress.

Children's Mental Health Week

Exploring the role of art in our curriculum 

At Sybil Elgar School we offer art to provide our pupils and students opportunity to develop a range of skills, including self-expression, sensory integration, fine motor skill development, social interaction, emotional regulation, and improved cognitive and academic skills. Incorporating art into the learning curriculum can provide a valuable and enjoyable experience for autistic pupils and students, supporting their overall development and wellbeing.

Art as a tool to reduce anxiety 

Here are some ways we use art in our school to reduce anxiety:

Mindful coloring: Mindful coloring involves focusing on coloring within the lines and paying attention to the colors being used. This can be calming and soothing, providing a distraction from anxious thoughts.

Drawing or painting emotions: Creating art that represents emotions can be a useful way for autistic pupils and students to process and regulate their emotions. Drawing or painting emotions can help them identify and express their feelings, reducing anxiety and promoting self-awareness.

Art journaling: Art journaling involves creating art in a journal or notebook, which can be a therapeutic way to reflect on thoughts and feelings. Pupils and students can use art journaling to explore and express their emotions, thoughts, and experiences, reducing anxiety and promoting self-reflection.

Sculpting or modeling: Creating three-dimensional art, such as sculptures or models, can provide a calming sensory experience for for our pupils and students. The tactile feedback of manipulating materials can be grounding and soothing, reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.

Collaborative art projects: Collaborative art projects, such as group murals or sculptures, can provide opportunities for social interaction and support. Working together on a creative project can promote a sense of community.

We encourage and support our pupils and students in exploring and engaging in art activities as part of a broader strategy for managing anxiety and supporting their emotional wellbeing.