Could the color in your child’s room be affecting his or her behavior? It might be a strange concept to consider, but there appears to be some truth to it. Lauren Henry, the Founder and President of With a Brush of Love, is helping children with autism to experience their optimal learning environment.
An article on today’s Huffington Post describes more about Lauren Henry’s ideas. She has a background in child psychology, education, and art. She observed that students who were on the autism spectrum often became overwhelmed by the environment in the mainstream classroom they have been included into. There simply was too much stimulation in the room for these children to cope with. She also noticed that these same students were experiencing an increased amount of agitation and anxiety when they were separated out into a classroom with gray walls, and only one desk and chair. This classroom provided no warmth, or visual interest for the child.
Based on her observations, Lauren Henry believed that there was a way that these children could have a better experience. She decided to do something about it. This is how her company, With A Brush Of Love, got started. This company is endorsed by the Autism Society of America. They work with a Medical and Educational Advisory Board that is composed of licensed therapists, educators, and experts from within the autism/special needs communities. Together, they design an environment that is optimal for an individual child.
Children who have autism often have difficulty communicating with other people. They may avoid eye contact, and situations that require social interactions. Some children flap their hands when overstimulated, or exhibit other forms of stimming as a means of coping. Most of these children cannot simply tell their parents what is wrong. As a result, many parents are frustrated and upset when they cannot figure out what is causing their child to feel anxiety.
The idea behind With A Brush of Love is simple. You will have better success with at-home therapies if the room the therapy takes place in isn’t counterproductive. Parents of children who have been helped by Lauren Henry’s company report that their child is less anxious, can sleep through the night, or has more confidence. It’s an interesting idea that seems to be working.
Image by Alan Cleaver on Flickr