Overview

This full-day workshop is designed to meet the needs of dance educators, dance/movement therapists, teaching artists, physical education teachers, classroom teachers, and related service providers who work with students with disabilities in school, community, and studio settings.

Led by two dance educators with extensive experience in special education settings, the workshop will introduce concepts, strategies, and activities for working with students with disabilities through dance. Grounded in an asset-based approach, the intensive emphasizes respect for diversity in the classroom and focuses on students’ strengths and skills, rather than deficits.

Topics addressed will include: structuring the dance classroom, responding to sensory needs, providing visual supports, and supporting meaningful participation and student engagement through behavior supports. Much of the content will be applicable to students with a wide range of disabilities, and additional activities will focus on supporting students with specific disabilities such as autism, emotional disabilities, intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, and multiple disabilities.

The workshop will include a combination of PowerPoint presentations, movement experiences, discussions, and small-group work. Participants will also have time for reflection and collaborative discussion on ways to apply the material for their own students and teaching contexts.

This workshop will be held from 9 AM-3 PM with a 1-hour lunch break. Lunch will be provided.