In Malvern and Broomall, Pennsylvania, “A Flick of the Wrist” stands as a beacon of inclusivity and creativity. Founded by Jennifer Briddes and Bonnie Stritzinger, this innovative art studio offers a unique blend of splatter painting and sensory-friendly experiences tailored for children with diverse needs. Their mission is clear: to provide a safe, welcoming space where every child can express themselves freely through art.
The Vision Behind “A Flick of the Wrist”
Jennifer Briddes, inspired by her personal journey as a mother to an autistic child, recognized the lack of inclusive spaces for children with sensory sensitivities. Her partner, Bonnie Stritzinger, an experienced elementary school teacher, shared this vision. Together, they established “A Flick of the Wrist” to bridge this gap, ensuring that art is accessible to all children, regardless of their abilities.
Their studio is more than just an art space; it’s a community hub where children can explore their creativity without fear of judgment. By focusing on sensory-friendly environments, they cater specifically to children with autism, ADHD, and other sensory processing disorders.
Sensory-Friendly Art Experiences
Understanding the unique needs of neurodivergent children, Jennifer and Bonnie have meticulously designed their studio to be sensory-friendly. Features include:
- Splatter Paint Studio: A controlled environment where children can freely express themselves by splattering paint, promoting both creativity and sensory integration.
- Blacklight Room: Utilizing UV lights and glow-in-the-dark paints, this space offers a calming experience for children who find traditional lighting overstimulating.
- Open Canvas Sessions: Unstructured painting sessions that allow children to create at their own pace, promoting independence and self-expression.
These thoughtfully curated experiences not only nurture artistic skills but also support therapeutic outcomes, helping children develop fine motor skills, reduce anxiety, and build confidence.
Community Engagement and Accessibility
“A Flick of the Wrist” is committed to community involvement and ensuring accessibility for all families. Their initiatives include:
- Summer Camps: Offering half-day, full-day, and week-long camps filled with diverse activities like arts and crafts, yoga, and dance, tailored to accommodate various sensory needs.
- Mobile Splatter Unit: Recognizing that not all families can visit the studio, they introduced a mobile unit to bring the art experience directly to schools, community centers, and private events.
- Fundraisers and Parties: Hosting events where a portion of the proceeds supports local organizations, reinforcing their commitment to giving back to the community.
Expanding the Model of Art-Based Therapy
Though not formally branded as a therapy center, Jennifer and Bonnie’s approach reflects the values of art-based therapeutic programs supported by leading child development specialists. Research shows that creative expression helps children with sensory disorders improve communication and self-regulation. By intentionally combining accessible tools, stimulating colors, and positive reinforcement, A Flick of the Wrist is quietly pioneering a model of care that could inspire similar programs nationwide
Building Confidence Through Joy
At the heart of the studio’s magic is joy. Children light up as they splash color across canvases, laugh with peers, or explore new textures and tools. This simple act of creative freedom can be transformational, especially for children who often face barriers in traditional classroom or group settings. Jennifer and Bonnie understand that joy isn’t just a byproduct of creativity; it’s an essential part of healing, learning, and connection.
The Impact on Families
Parents and caregivers have lauded “A Flick of the Wrist” for its positive impact on their children’s lives. Testimonials often highlight the studio’s welcoming atmosphere and the noticeable improvements in their children’s social and emotional well-being. One parent shared, “My family absolutely loved the experience. Whether you love to paint or just want to find a way to relieve stress in a fun way, this is the perfect family activity.”
Such feedback underscores the studio’s role in not just providing art lessons but in fostering a sense of belonging and community for families navigating the challenges of sensory processing disorders.
Jennifer Briddes and Bonnie Stritzinger have transformed “A Flick of the Wrist” into more than an art studio; it’s a sanctuary for children with sensory needs to explore, create, and thrive. Their untiring commitment to inclusivity, combined with innovative art experiences, has made a lasting impact on countless families.
For more information or to book a session, visit their official website. Stay connected and inspired by following them on Instagram and Facebook.