They don't need to know much about art, but a group of Auckland mums do know what they'd like - a break from the stress of coping with special needs children.
As a full-time carer to her 16-year-old daughter, who has Down syndrome, Lara Simmons anticipates taking part in an arts therapy group especially for mothers of children with special needs, starting next year.
Organised by registered arts therapist Anaia Treefoot, the programme aims to refresh and support these mothers through art, dance and movement.
Ms Treefoot has already run dance classes for groups, but next year she is throwing art into the mix.
"For parents to be the best they can be, they need to be resourced and have their batteries charged," Ms Treefoot says.
"The programme is about creating a safe environment for mothers to connect with themselves."
Designed for mums, who are often the primary caregivers in families with special-needs children, the therapy includes working with clay, paints and pastels - artistic ability isn't required. Ms Treefoot also shows them breathing techniques and provides emotional support.
"When parents first receive a diagnosis about their child, they often experience shock," she says.
"Some things are hard to express with words, and making art can externalise an internal experience and provide a way to be witnessed by others who 'get' it."
Ms Simmons knows the difficulties of communicating with others about the challenges of being a full-time carer to a special-needs child.
"You are constantly aware of the needs of someone else," she says.
After previously taking part in a dance-movement therapy group for women, led by Ms Treefoot, Ms Simmons is now encouraging mothers to join next year's programme to be with other people who "have more of an understanding of what we go through on a day-to-day basis".
"In the past, I didn't tend to share what was going on with others - like my worry - because people can't do anything about it," she says. "But I'm finding that it's useful to share, especially when people understand."
About the Arts classes
An introductory session will be held on Thursday, December 1, at 9.30am at the Arts Therapy Trust, 81 New North Rd, Eden Tce. The session costs $15. Register by calling Anaia Treefoot on 021 184 9676 or emailing her at info@anaiatreefoot.org or see www.anaiatreefoot.org