CHAMPS programs at Cahoots
Whether its painting, drawing, or moulding something with your hands, art is an incredible form of therapy, relaxation and mindfulness.
That’s why, at Cahoots, we offer CHAMPS to WA kids and families looking for an alternative or addition to traditional services.
The Cahoots Hearts and Minds Program (CHAMPS), funded by Telethon, Smartgroup and BMD is an innovative holistic art program, designed to improve mental and emotional health amongst children and youth living with a disability or at disadvantage.
Designed for children of all abilities aged six to 13 years, the workshops are free and are designed to be fun, expressive, and a great way for young artists to get creative.
There are so many key benefits that CHAMPS provides, both mentally and physically. These include:
Exploring Feelings
CHAMPS provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore and understand their emotions. Through various artistic mediums, participants can express complex feelings that may be challenging to articulate verbally. This process of self-expression can lead to increased self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
Expressing Creativity and Imagination
The creative nature of CHAMPS encourages participants to unleash their imagination and explore new ideas. Regardless of the type of art, individuals have the opportunity to experiment with different forms of expression, fostering creativity and innovation.
Improving Confidence and Self-esteem
Engaging in artistic activities within a supportive community can boost confidence and self-esteem. Creating things and overcoming challenges can develop a sense of accomplishment and self-worth. Over time, this can translate into increased confidence in other areas of life.
Developing Better Communication Skills
CHAMPS provides a platform for individuals to communicate and connect with others in non-verbal ways. Through art, participants learn to express themselves effectively, even when words may fail them. Additionally, collaborating on creative projects encourages teamwork and interpersonal communication skills.
Improving Motor Skills and Physical Coordination
Many CHAMPS activities involve physical movement and manipulation of materials, which can enhance motor skills and coordination. Whether it’s painting on a canvas, drawing with pencils or moulding a clay creation, participants develop fine and gross motor skills through practice and repetition.
Operating in the Perth Metro area and WA’s South West, CHAMPS is an exciting opportunity for children and families living with disability or other challenging circumstances as the program is completely free to the community!
Designed by qualified Holistic Integrated Creative Arts Therapists (Mbe HICAT Prac), CHAMPS is clinically proven, inclusive and culturally safe and appropriate.
Get your pencils, pens and paintbrushes together and join us at a CHAMPS near you!
You can discover everything you need to know about CHAMPS and find a program that works for you, here: https://www.cahoots.org.au/art-therapy/
