Special Needs Art & Fun! ‘Mindful Messes’ at the Ocean County Library Brick Branch

BRICK TOWNSHIP – Neurodivergent children and their families can experience the joy of creating art during “Mindful Messes: An Art & Play Interactive Experience” at the Ocean County Library Brick Branch, 10 AM Saturday, May 3.

The Library’s Autism Resources Committee is pleased to welcome board certified Art Therapist and licensed Professional Counselor Jennifer Lawrence and the program that she has popularized through her Monmouth County practice and through her website and Instagram.

Children between ages 4 and 11 with developmental challenges will explore “Connection” through playful movement, mindfulness and open-ended art making. All family members will be invited to take part. Activities are broad-based to meet a wide range of needs and preferences.

The art materials are nontoxic but not very tasty, so the program best serves youngsters who suppress impulses to insert objects in their mouths. It’s important to also note that music and conversation throughout the activity will result in varying levels of noise in the room.

Jennifer’s 30-year career in art therapy and education includes co-creating the “Healing with Horses” program, which raised wide awareness of equine therapy’s emotional, mental and physical benefits.

“Mindful Messes” registration is limited to 25 participants. Each participating family member must be registered. Please register at https://tinyurl.com/OclBJLMM for this free program.

For more information, stop by the OCL Brick Branch, 301 Chambers Bridge Road, or call (732) 477-4513. See the full schedule of Library programs in the online Calendar of Events.

This program is generously sponsored by the Ocean County Library Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization now in its 24th year of enhancing services and opportunities to all Library users. Members raise funds and seek grants to support non-traditional Library programs and services.

OCL turns 100 this year and you’re why we’re celebrating! See details on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, Spotify, Pinterest and www.theoceancountylibrary.org.