Dancing and Arts Education

In Glendale (CA), a dance for autistic teens was organized. The purpose of the dance? It sounds from the article like the answer is "fun."

In Sherman Oaks (CA), a prom for autistic teens was organized, including dance lessons preceding it. The purpose of the prom? Fun, yes, but also learning, "Music and dance can be useful educational tools to help students acquire social skills and further develop awareness of self and others." A bit brittle that, but there are other educational benefits from the art of course. Quotes from some dance-goers:

"Prom was fun," said student Andre. "I danced all night -- now that I know the moves. Dancing allows me to express myself and it makes me feel so good. I feel like nothing can stop me while I listen to the music."

Corde, a graduating senior, expressed a sentiment that captured how many of the students felt about their dance lessons leading up to the prom, "Dancing is fun -- it's energizing. Every time I dance I feel a sudden explosion of energy and it makes me feel alive."

I am reminded of Kristina's post on the arts in autism education. An issue that is truly not confined just to autism education, but applies to education for all students. The arts are typically the first things cut from schools when money gets tight, the educational power of the arts being often underestimated. The quotes from students above are ones that any student might say, or any person really who enjoys dance, or whatever other art form makes them giddy.