The Sensory and Haptic Nature of Art Therapy Materials With Young Children Ages 0-5yrs Old of Complex Trauma

This survey study with an art response aims to further understand how the sensory and haptic nature of art therapy materials can aid in healing within the therapeutic process. Specifically, it will explore young children, ages 0-5yrs old, of complex trauma and how they respond to art materials within the therapeutic process. Surveys were distributed to mental health therapists working with the 0-5 year old population in order to gather baseline information about how young children who have experienced trauma, respond to methods of interventions, including art materials. Through analysis of the participants’ survey responses and artwork, emergent themes revealed insight for further research and reinforced the importance of a consistent, nurturing caregiving relationship. These findings and themes illuminated the importance of relationship and revealed inquiries about the sensory and haptic nature of art materials being utilized for assessment in dyadic therapy with children 0-5 years old.