Indiana State University Newsroom

The Indiana State University Community School of the Arts is offering Literacy and Music for Kids with Special Needs to children in grades kindergarten through fifth.

Classes provide a fun way to supplement children's education while adding art and music. Sessions run 1-2 p.m. Saturdays Sept. 26-Dec. 5 in room 8A of the Bayh College of Education, 401 North 7th St.

Handwriting Without Tears is a fun way for pre-writers and emerging writers to enjoy beginning literacy efforts. This course is multisensory (music, play dough, wooden pieces, slate boards and stamps) and includes a kinesthetic component.

Class will focus on presenting the capital alphabet in such a way that students can learn through play as well as physical and sensory experiences. Fine motor skills are often very difficult for kids with physical disabilities and kids on the spectrum, so instructors are prepared to adapt the lessons to children's needs.

Supervised by professors Margaret Ladyman and Sharon Boyle, music, art and occupational therapy student instructors will lead the class.

This program is a collaboration between Indiana State University's Community School of the Arts and occupational therapy program and the Saint Mary of-the-Woods College music therapy program. It is made possible through the assistance of the McCarthy Endowment, Indiana State University Foundation.

The Bayh College of Education is wheelchair accessible. Classes and parking are free of charge.

To register or for more information, call the Community School of the Arts at 812-237-2528. Early registration is advised, as enrollment is limited to 20 students. Caregivers are encouraged to attend.

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Contact: Petra Nyendick, director of the Community School of the Arts, Indiana State University, 812-841-2884 or petra.nyendick@indstate.edu