Art, dance and yoga fun for children with special needs

The children dance, laugh and jump around to the sound of a saxophone and drums, then dash over to stick polka dots on 3-D art pieces when the music stops.

The group of children with special needs is enjoying an afternoon of music and art to help them express themselves and learn new skills while having fun.

With support from last year's Operation Santa Claus appeal, the Joshua Hellmann Foundation has set up an arts and yoga programme for these children and their parents.

"I found that my son was able to focus on the music. I discovered more of the things that are suitable for him," said Pian Yeung Wai-kam, who has attended several sessions with her eight-year-old son, Hugo Lo Chi-hin. Lo, who is autistic, especially enjoys music. He learned body co-ordination skills through yoga sessions.

The eight-week programme, which began last month, is free. The group of 15 children, parents, therapists and instructors meet every Tuesday afternoon at the Jockey Club Sarah Roe School, alternating between art and yoga sessions. The foundation is hoping to expand the programme for more children with different needs.

The 11/2-hour art session last Tuesday involved group art-making, dancing, sharing in a circle, and scrapbook-making.

The children, who have Down's syndrome, autism, or other special needs, usually have difficulties in communication and concentration.