ABSTRACT
It is imperative that a school art space be set up in a way that not only provides structure, but also encourages safety and security, both physically and emotionally. Children living in chaos and uncertainty thrive on knowing what to expect at school. They need consistent and predictable structures to feel safe. This chapter focuses on routines, relationships, and reinforcements that are essential in promoting a safe environment for all students to create. It presents many factors to incorporate into the art room to help students be successful. Included are helpful tips for establishing clear procedures and routines for students to follow, suggestions for presenting art materials in a way that is organized, and considerations for various responses that art media can provoke when selecting materials for specific projects. The chapter contains recommendations for making personal connections, including creating a consciousness of personal verbal and non-verbal communication; and techniques to give students the ability to have flexibility, freedom, and control within the art room to help increase their confidence and self-esteem.
