Bead by bead, SPD Day Activity Centre (DAC)’s client Gek Teng (in cover photo), gingerly places each diamond-shaped rhinestone onto a numbered self-adhesive canvas. This intricate craftwork, known as diamond art, is one that needs extremely fine hand-eye coordination and dexterity.

Seeing the potential of how this craftwork can improve the concentration and sitting tolerance for clients with autism, the training officers at the DAC brought in a few sets for the clients to work on. The introduction of a new craftwork also exposes the clients to more options of leisure activities.

But the initial process of engaging them with the craftwork was an uphill task.

“At first, the clients just followed what they were instructed to do but they had no interest in the activity,” said Pooja Gupta, a training officer at DAC.

“To get them to focus and follow the sequence of steps were not easy. So, we started by getting them to do the activity for five minutes, and gradually increase the duration. Now, they are able to work on it for about 30 minutes at one go,” she added.

A piece of artwork at the size of 30cm by 40cm would take a client around two months to complete.

As the clients continue to partake in this craftwork, the training officers have observed that they now have better focus, attention span, and sitting tolerance. The clients have also shown more precision in their work.

Seeing the dazzling art pieces upon completion, many of the clients started to gain a sense of accomplishment and are now more motivated to engage in the activity.

They have also put their skills to a good cause as their completed artwork will be used in a campaign to raise funds for persons with disabilities. For a donation of $50 and above to SPD, donors will receive a piece of diamond artwork made lovingly by our clients. Ten pieces of artwork have been completed so far, with another eight on the way.

To show your support for our clients, please visit this page to learn more about the campaign. Let us cheer them on as they continue to work on their craft!