For some children, art is more than just a creative outlet—it’s a language. A way to feel seen, to find calm, and to connect without needing words. At Sunday Circle, sensory art—hands-on projects that engage touch, smell, sound, and movement—isn’t just fun. It’s transformative. Thanks to volunteer art directors Sue and Lisa, the art room has become a place where children with special needs can express themselves, build social bridges, and thrive in a way that feels natural and joyful. The Art of Connection “Art transcends everything,” says Sue, a longtime preschool art educator and dedicated volunteer. “It gives kids the chance to get focused, be in the moment, and express themselves in ways that other forms of communication can’t achieve.” This kind of connection is rare and powerful, especially in a world filled with fast-paced, screen-driven stimulation. Research shows sensory-based art activities can improve fine motor skills, attention span, and emotional
regulation for children with special needs (Adamo et al.2019). Lisa, who co-leads Sunday Circle’s art programming as a volunteer, has witnessed these transformations firsthand. “The kids really gravitate toward sensory activities,” she shares. “We’ve explored so many textures—leaf rubbing, watercolor painting, stamping, tissue paper transfer. Some kids dive right in. Others start out tentative, then surprise themselves with how focused and immersed they become.” One unforgettable moment came during a pulled string painting project. “It was like a magic trick,” Lisa says, smiling. “The kids dipped string into paint, laid it on paper, folded it, and pulled the string through. The results were beautiful and completely unexpected. Some kids made 10 or 15 pieces in one session.” Sue adds, “Whether you’re cutting apples or painting with Q-tips, the act of making something with your hands brings everyone into the moment. It connects them—to the process, to themselves, and to each other.”
More Than A Mess: The Magic of Sensory Art for Kids
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