VSA-Arts Unite Us. Photo by Diana Payette
Vision, Strength, Accessibility
Youth in Arts is the Marin County affiliate of VSA arts California, an international, nonprofit organization founded in 1974 by Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith to create a society where all people with disabilities learn through, participate in and enjoy the arts.
Youth in Arts VSA arts programs offer tailored visual and performing arts instruction to students who require adapted lessons. YIA Mentor Artists serve students of all abilities from preschool to post-secondary, who have differed ability levels; behavioral or emotional challenges; or are recovering from substance abuse. Courses can address many IEP goals including Fine/Gross Motor Skills, Verbal Skills, Language Development, Visual-Spatial Awareness, Social Skills, Concept Development and Adaptive Behavior.
Youth in Arts VSA arts can adapt nearly any of our AIS Courses for special needs students.
Just a few possible adaptations include:
- Tailored musical repertoire (i.e. to emphasize social interaction or language development);
- Adaptive art tools (i.e. ball-handled paintbrushes, texture plates for visually impaired students);
- Guided movement activities; and
- Theraputic Art & Process Theater (facilitating meaningful and positive expression of emotion).
Explore the links to the left to learn more about our courses. To apply for VSA arts programming, complete the application form or contact VSA arts Director Nydia Gonzalez.
