At Shrub Oak International School, art and music form core components of its holistic approach to supporting the developmental and emotional needs of autistic students. These creative outlets allow students to express themselves, communicate nonverbally, and foster emotional and social growth. Through a well-rounded curriculum and personalized instruction, Shrub Oak International School offers a comprehensive experience in art and music, helping students develop their talents and key life skills. Whether through structured lessons, individualized approaches, or engaging extracurricular activities, students are encouraged to explore their creativity and use it as a tool for personal development.
The music program at Shrub Oak International School is as diverse as its student body. Its primary goal is to provide all students with access to the music-making process, regardless of their previous experience or ability level. The program ranges from instrumental instruction to music theory and everything in between, ensuring that each student can engage with music in a way that resonates with their individual preferences and abilities.
Beyond the classroom, during campus life hours, students have the opportunity to nurture their musical interests in a more personalized setting. Shrub Oak International School provides a customized musical experience tailored to individual abilities by dedicating time to understanding each student’s needs and preferences. Some students may gravitate toward playing instruments, while others may prefer composing music, singing, dancing, or simply listening to their favorite songs. This variety of options ensures that every student can find a musical activity that they enjoy and that supports their emotional well-being.
Music also has a unique ability to help students process complex emotions that may be difficult to articulate verbally. Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School notes that some students may find comfort and emotional release through rhythmic instruments like drums, while others may prefer the structure of music theory or the creative process of songwriting. Regardless of the approach, music offers students a powerful tool to manage emotions, reduce stress, and develop coping strategies.
One of the key strengths of Shrub Oak International School’s music program is its flexibility in meeting students where they are. Some students may prefer non-pitched, rhythm-based instruments like tambourines or maracas, which allow them to express themselves through movement and rhythm. Others may be more interested in learning about musical notation and theory and exploring how different musical elements create harmony and melody. The program also introduces students to popular music genres, helping them understand the history of modern artists and how their work has influenced contemporary culture. Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School also emphasizes that by fostering an appreciation for different musical styles, the program encourages students to expand their musical horizons and find genres that resonate with them on a personal level.
Engagement in music also provides a wide range of mental and physical health benefits for students. Research shows that participating in musical activities can reduce stress, promote relaxation, and encourage positive energy. Music also has the power to improve cognitive functions such as memory retention, focus, and attention span. At Shrub Oak International School, music is not only used as a form of artistic expression but also as a therapeutic tool to enhance students’ overall well-being. Group activities, such as drum circles and music sessions, foster social connections among peers, promoting teamwork and communication in a collaborative environment. These experiences help students build confidence and develop key social skills that extend beyond the classroom.
Regular group activities, such as karaoke nights and school-wide performances further strengthen the social component of the music program. Karaoke nights provide students with a fun and supportive environment to express themselves through music, building confidence and encouraging social interaction. School-wide performances, such as the Spring Showcase, offer students the opportunity to share their musical talents with the broader Shrub Oak International School community, celebrating their achievements in a festive and inclusive environment. These performances not only highlight students’ progress but also foster a sense of accomplishment and belonging.
Art is another cornerstone of Shrub Oak International School’s educational and therapeutic approach. The school’s art program is designed to help students enhance their mental, emotional, and physical well-being through the creative process. By providing students with various artistic outlets, Shrub Oak enables them to express themselves in ways that go beyond words. For many students, art serves as a powerful tool for emotional expression, conflict resolution, and stress management.
The art curriculum at Shrub Oak International School is rich and diverse, offering students a range of opportunities to explore different mediums and methods. One of the core principles of the program is mixed media, where students are encouraged to combine more than one artistic method or material in a single project. Additionally, students are encouraged to engage in exploratory art, where they have the chance to experiment with new techniques and materials, broadening their artistic horizons and discovering new passions.
Art at Shrub Oak International School offers another outlet for creative expression. Through guided art projects, students can explore difficult emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms. For students who struggle with verbal communication, art provides a nonverbal way to express their feelings and thoughts, offering a safe and supportive space for self-reflection.
Extracurricular art activities, such as the Art Club, allow students to explore their creativity in a social setting further. The Art Club at Shrub Oak International School provides a collaborative environment where students can collaborate on group projects or pursue individual creative endeavors. Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School understands that these activities help students build social connections, develop teamwork skills, and gain confidence in their artistic abilities. Events like Slimy Saturdays offer students a sensory-based art experience, combining the tactile process of making slime with the creative freedom to experiment with colors and textures. Michael Koffler of Shrub Oak International School explains that these experiences foster creativity while enhancing students’ sensory integration skills.
In both art and music, students receive individualized attention and guidance, ensuring that their unique needs are met. Whether through creating visual art, playing an instrument, or composing music, students are encouraged to use these creative outlets to explore their emotions, build social connections, and develop key life skills. Shrub Oak International School emphasizes personalized instruction and ensures that each student is supported in a way that fosters growth and self-expression.
Shrub Oak International School’s art and music programs exemplify the school’s commitment to providing a holistic educational experience that nurtures creativity, emotional well-being, and social development. These programs empower students to express themselves, explore new interests, and develop the skills they need to succeed inside and outside the classroom by offering a diverse range of artistic and musical opportunities. The art and music programs also help students build confidence, process emotions, and achieve personal growth in a nurturing and inclusive environment through individualized support and a focus on therapeutic outcomes.
For more information about Shrub Oak International School, visit www.shruboak.org.
