Welcome!

Welcome to our free online course, “Using the Arts to Create Joy & Connection”. This particular course, lays a foundation for any of our workshops and tutorials at Artful Connections.  Using the arts for building relationships, communication, creative expression, and problem-solving is a new idea for many people.  Anything new can seem a bit intimidating or overwhelming, so I want to help you to understand how and why the arts can make a difference to you, as a caregiver, and to the people you are caring for.

In Module 1 of the course, we explore why art makes a difference to Quality of Life for people with dementia and what exactly I mean by “art”. We’ll look at how creative expression is a form of communication - oftentimes,  communication without the need for words.   As dementia progresses for your loved one or client, verbal communication becomes increasingly challenging, making other forms of expressive communication extremely important.    

I probably don’t need to tell you that your relationship with the person you are caring for is a moving target.  So we’ll also cover how co-creating (making art together) builds connection and promotes stronger relationships.

The focus of Module 2 is Mind Shift.  If the person with dementia you are caring for is a family member, chances are you have been thrown into a situation outside any previous life experience, no matter how much caregiving you have done as a parent or grandparent.   As defined by The Alzheimer’s Society,  “Dementia is an overall term for a set of symptoms that are caused by disorders affecting the brain.”.  For the caregiver, this requires quite a “mind shift” for just about every aspect of your caregiving.  And - if the idea of using ART as a way to enhance Quality of Life is new to you, there may be a few “mind shifts” I can guide you through where art is concerned as well. 

In Module 3, I’ll introduce you to 3 arts based activities that you can start using immediately! You can follow along in the video tutorials, or download and print off the instructions & material lists, so you have an easy reference when using the activity with your family member or client.

I look forward to supporting you in your role as a caregiver and showing you how to include more creativity and joy in the work you do with others. Let’s get started!

Creatively yours,

Shelley King