Nicole (English teacher) : "There were several moments in art therapy where I had the opportunity to witness some glimmers of transformation in the behaviour of some of our students with complex support needs. One such occasion was during our last session of the term when two of the boys in our class expressed interest in a collaborative mural activity. Both of the boys typically find it difficult to engage in tasks that require developed executive functioning and long periods of stillness. During this activity, however, they not only sought permission and responded well to instructions and corrective feedback, they also engaged in kind and respectful conversation with each other and the adults in the session while working to complete their part of the mural for about ten minutes. This was the longest stretch of time I, personally, have ever witnessed them in such a calm and settled state. As someone whose work focuses on promoting their reengagement with school, this was a valuable opportunity for these boys to experience success and receive positive feedback during the school day."
