Thematic elements of the life cycle of butterflies were incorporated in my intervention regarding termination. This intervention took place over the course of the month, in anticipation and preparation for my departure at The League.
Participants observed the life cycle of butterflies first hand as they witnessed caterpillars engage in the process of metamorphosis, forming in their chrysalises and becoming butterflies.
Within my last week, participants engaged in artmaking of tie dye coffee filter butterflies. The finished products were hung in a group art piece on the door of the art therapy room.
Live butterfly release.
The League’s Adult Medical Day program released the butterflies as part of their "Forever in Our Hearts" Celebration of Life Memorial Service. The service had uplifting song, prayer, testimony, memories, and poetry delivered by fellow participants and staff. The service concluded in the garden where participants placed painted rocks in the Memorial Rock Garden in memory of their dearly beloved and missed friends. The butterflies that the participants had witnessed grow from caterpillars were released as part of the symbolic metaphor for “those who have left us but are always in our hearts”.
Intervention manual
Materials
Coffee filters
Colored markers
Dabber dots (Bingo markers)
Pipe cleaners
Spray bottle of water
Tray
Gloves
How to
Step one.
Spread and flatten two coffee filters.
Step two.
Decorate with colored markers- fill with shapes, designs, and color!
Step three.
Place colored coffee filters on tray and spritz generously with spray bottle of water.
Step four.
Wearing gloves to avoid stained hands, help to spread the ink by gently scrunching the coffee filter.
Step five.
Once desired amount of saturation is complete, flatten coffee filters back on tray to dry. To speed the drying process, a hair dryer can be used or coffee filters can be placed in microwave for 30 seconds.
Step six.
Once dry, fold each coffee filter accordion style.
Step seven.
Place the two accordion folded coffee filters together horizontally (one on top, one on bottom) and bind together in pinched middle with a folded pipe cleaner (fold on bottom). Twist the pipe cleaner together at top, leaving the two edges free to create antennas for the butterfly.
Step eight.
Gently spread the accordion folds to create the butterflies wings!
Adaptations
For those with limited functioning of fine motor skills, adjustments can be made to allow for completion. Dabber dots (Bingo markers) can be substituted for colored markers, as they are more accessible to those with limited range of motion or limited control. Coffee filters and pipe cleaners can also be pre-folded and twisted to allow for easy folding and insertion of the wings.
Goals and objectives
The overall goal was to bring closure to the idea of departure and termination. Within the artmaking, the goal was to facilitate freedom of choice and independence. Therapeutic goals of exercising fine motor skills and functioning are also implemented.