Clay is a media that physically reacts to any manipulative. As a kinesthetic or tangible object, it allows an emotional release. It also sparks creativity within the student. A certain high functioning, ninth grade autistic student, was classified as Moderately Intellectually Disabled (MOID). He was nonresponsive most of the school day. He would only speak when spoken to. His first class away from the self contained environment was ceramics.
He was extremely fond of the clay. The more he worked with the clay, the more he began to open up to his surroundings. When questioned about the his work, he would respond. This student is now an 11th grader. He has become an avid chess and checkers player.
11-13-2005, 08:22 PM
Playing with clay helps autistic kid
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