Foundations of Therapeutic Recreation

Introducing Program Planning

Program Plan
Program Name:

ARTS-Spectacular (Creative Arts Sampler)

Program Purpose:
This program of adaptive art is designed to provide an opportunity for creative expression,
enjoyment and relaxation. Employing a variety of media and techniques, this Arts and Crafts
Sampler will introduce participants to simple techniques using paint, collage and other multi-media
processes. These activities may provide an antidote to the participants (adults with Cerebral Palsy)
ongoing medical concerns and interventions.
General Program Description:
Each session of 60 minutes will focus on single projects, with specific themes, techniques
and materials. Samples of finished pieces along with demonstrations of the techniques (and
modifications) will be provided before each session. Activities are easily modified to meet
individual needs while still maintaining the participants maximum level of independence.
Program Goals:
1. To promote creativity and self-expression.
2. To improve or maintain fine motor control and voluntary muscle control of hands and arms.
3. To foster a sense of accomplishment, confidence and emotional wellbeing.
Activity Name: Painters Surprise (No-mess Finger Painting for Adults)
Program Process:
1. Tables are covered in protective plastic sheets or mats.
2. Arrange a separate drying table for completed paintings.
3. Participants name is written on the papers reverse (for later identification).
4. Paper (choice of colour) is taped in place, onto the tables surface.
5. Paint (one colour) is squeezed gently (applied sparingly in two or three blobs) onto the
papers surface (central area). Participant may require assistance to grasp the paint tubes.
6. Repeat the paint-application process with two more colours, selected by the participant.
Joy Pennick

Foundations of Therapeutic Recreation

Introducing Program Planning

7. Place 2 sheets of wax-paper over the paint-covered paper. Taped down for security.
8. Participant uses fingers, hands or a sponge to smooth and push the paint (beneath the waxpaper) across the paper, from the centre towards the edges. Do not scrub!
9. Continue smoothing the wax paper until the paint is flattened and a desired pattern
(composition) is achieved. Use wipes to remove excess paint.
10. Remove the wax-paper (assistance provided if required) to reveal the Painters Surprise!
11. Allow painting to dry (can use hair dryer).
12. Finished print can be mounted onto card, framed or folded to create a greeting card.
13. Continue the process with different coloured paper (for variety) and paints.
14. Once complete, wipes are used to clean hands and work areas.
Modifications or Adaptations:
Paper can be taped to a small tray and placed on the wheelchairs tray. Facilitator can lift the
paper to be closer to participants reach.
Facilitator can place the paint tube into the participants hand.
Paper and wax paper are taped in place, preventing the painting from sliding.
Spreading the paint may be done by holding a sponge (with handle) which is pressed across
the paper.
Supplies & Equipment
Tables for painting and for drying. Each participant is provided with adequate space. for
painting and to accommodate wheelchairs (if required).
Assorted card-stock paper, cut into 2 sized. At least 6 choices for each participant.
Craft-grade acrylic paints, in soft tubes of assorted colours.
Masking Tape.
Plastic trays, plastic sheet or mats to protect tables.
Foam sponges (cut into smaller pieces) or sponge on a handle.
Wax-paper cut in pieces slightly larger than the card stock.
Glue stick and pencils.
Hand-wipes & paper towels.

Joy Pennick

Foundations of Therapeutic Recreation

Introducing Program Planning

References
Bathje, M. (2013). Expressing emotions through participation in painting. The Open Journal of
Occupational Therapy, 1(2), 1-4. Doi:10.15453/2168-6408.1040
Carter, M. J., & Van Andel, G. E. (2011). Therapeutic recreation: A practical approach (4th ed.).
Long Grove, IL: Waveland Press.
Fuller, J., Jongsma, F., Milne, K., Venuti, S., & Williams, K. (2008). Art for arts sake: A
qualitative study exploring the facilitation of creativity within disability services. Retrieved
from http://www.aarts.net.au/news/244/115/Art-For-Art-s-Sake-A-Qualitative-StudyExploring-the-Facilitation-of-Creativity-Within-Disability-Service
Malchiodi, C. (Ed.). (2013). Art therapy in health care. New York, NY: Guilford Press.
Mitchell, L. C. (2004). Making the most of creativity activities for young children with disabilities.
Retrieved from http://www.naeyc.org/resources/journal.
Slayton, S., DArcher, J., & Kaplan, F. (2010). Outcome studies on the efficacy of art therapy: A
review of findings. Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association, 27(3),
108-118

Joy Pennick

Foundations of Therapeutic Recreation

Introducing Program Planning

Introduction
Target Population:
The target population (described in my Understanding the TR Clientele paper) for this
Program Plan includes adults (between the ages of 22 to 44) with Cerebral Palsy. This designated
population, presents with spastic quadriplegia and moderate functional impairments. Speech is
minimally affected, communication skills are well developed and intelligence is unimpaired. This
population may require mobility support (wheelchair) and assistance with personal care. The
individuals level of manual dexterity (fine motor skill) may determine the type of activity
attempted and the type of modification required.

Activity Analyses:
This Adaptive Art program has been devised to offer access without major modification.
Individual activities have been selected that can be accomplished by participants, with minimal
assistance or modification. An analysis of the Painters Surprise art activity identifies the following
skills, necessary for successful participation:
Physical: Some fine motor skills (arms and hands) and dexterity for grasping, reaching and
lateral movement of the arms (wiping action). Mobility deficits do not inhibit participation.
Cognitive: Capable of understanding basic instruction and sequencing (steps of the process).
Social: Ability to interact with facilitator and other participants helpful but not essential.
Psychological/Emotional: Comfortable with creative and self-expressive activities.

Summary of Research Evidence:

The literature strongly suggests that creative self-expression can contribute to a persons
sense of wellbeing and self-esteem (Malchiodi, 2013). Although TR professionals are not Art
Therapists, they can recognize the many therapeutic benefits of art-making activities. Incorporating
meaningful creative expression when planning art-based activities may enhance a participants
enjoyment and offer an opportunity for self-reflection. The physical benefits (fine motor and reflex
control) and cognitive benefits (greater concentration) are described in the 2010 review of the
effectiveness of Art Therapy (Slayton, DArcher & Kaplan, 2010). Finally, art activities offer
opportunities for non-verbal expression of thoughts and feelings which provides emotional comfort.
Joy Pennick

Foundations of Therapeutic Recreation

Introducing Program Planning

Painters Surprise: Program Process

Supplies:

Assorted card stock paper

Assorted tubes of acrylic paint
Wax paper
Masking tape
Sponges

Procedure: Step One

Tape paper down

Apply small drops of paint
Squeeze very gently!
Apply 2 other colours of paint
Work in the centre region

Procedure: Step Two

Lay sheet of wax paper over paint

Secure with tape
Use second layer of wax paper for thick
paint application

Procedure: Step Three

Using fingers, spread paint out from the
centre of the paper.
Smooth the paint gently (dont rip the
wax paper)

Joy Pennick

Foundations of Therapeutic Recreation

Introducing Program Planning

Procedure: Step Five

Using a soft sponge, spread paint until
desired pattern is achieved

Procedure: Step Six

Remove masking tape
Carefully peel back wax paper
Discard wax paper

Procedure: Step Seven

Remove tape and remove Painters
Surprise from the table
Allow to dry
Mount onto backing board if desired

Joy Pennick