This book isn’t only about changing how we parent. It’s about changing the lives of vulnerable youth.
For the first time ever, powerful tools inspired by art therapy have been made available to the public in the award-winning book, The Innovative Parent: Raising Connected, Happy, Successful Kids through Art (Ohio University/Swallow Press). This smart, practical guide helps caregivers and professionals alike to harness the arts to address myriad challenges faced by children and teens when words are not adequate or accessible, as a result of big feelings, stress, or trauma.
It’s a parenting endeavor and a social justice effort. Authors Erica Curtis ‘02 (board certified art therapist and LMU Marital and Family Therapy alumna) and Ping Ho (Director of UCLArts & Healing) are delivering “Innovative Parent” workshops across the country, helping parents and professionals realize their creative potential for supporting youth impacted by trauma from poverty, abuse, neglect, or community violence.
The Innovative Parent is the winner of a 2019 award from the National Parenting Products Association. Among other honors and recognitions, Erica Curtis delivered the keynote address at last year’s national play therapy conference, was honored for her work in VoyageLA, and recently delivered a workshop for the Inner City Education Foundation at the Getty Center.
Check out an animated video about the book, which includes helpful tips at the end.
About Erica: Erica Curtis is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, board-certified art therapist, and internationally cited expert on creative and cutting-edge approaches to emotional and relational health (appearing in over 70 media outlets). Erica was an instructor for the Department of Marital and Family Therapy (Clinical Art Therapy) from 2005-2011 and now serves as their admissions consultant. Past director on the Board of the American Art Therapy Association and past president of the Southern California Art Therapy Association, Erica is currently an instructor and curriculum developer for UCLArts & Healing, co-author of the award-winning book, “The Innovative Parent: Raising Connected, Happy, Successful Kids through art” with Ping Ho, and nationally sought speaker. Erica also maintains a psychotherapy practice in San Juan Capistrano, CA.
