원예활동이 발달장애아동의 자기조절력과 자기 표현력에 미치는 영향

Effects of Horticultural Activities on Self-regulation and Self-expression of Children with Developmental Disabilities

The purpose of this study was performed to investigate the effects of single horticultural activities including planting and flower arrangement activities on the self-regulation and self-expression of children with developmental disabilities. 6 children group of 12 children with developmental disabilities in early childhood education class within a welfare center performed the planting activities for twice a month with one hour from July 9 to November 12, 2012 (total 10 times). The other group carried out the flower arrangement activities for twice a month with one hour from July 3 to November 13, 2012 (total 10 times). As a result of comparing the scores on the self-regulation between the planting and flower arrangement groups, for flower arrangement, The self-control and impulsiveness were significantly raised at P<0.01 and P<0.05 level, respectively and overall scores on self-regulation were improved at P<0.01. For the comparison of the scores on the self-expression, the group for flower arrangement was significantly raised at P< 0.01 level in the aspect of non-verbal and the overall scores were improved at P<0.05 level. The summary of results above indicates that flower arrangement activities were more effective in enhancing self-regulation and self-expression in children with developmental disabilities than planting activities. In conclusion, horticultural activities requiring flowers that stimulate the senses gave positive effects on the self-regulation development and the enhancement of self-expression in children with developmental disabilities.