Finding appropriate physical activities for children with autism can sometimes be a daunting challenge. Several factors make the task complex for parents. The verbal instructions and social cues inherent in some physical activities can be difficult for these children to understand. As a result, their readiness to participate in activities can be compromised.
The testimony of Mélissa Ravary, mother of Alexa, one of our students in the autism creative dance class for 4-8 year-olds, is proof that it is possible to find a place for yourself in a dance class at the National Centre for Dance Therapy.
TESTIMONIAL
My daughter's name is Alexa. She's 6 years old, playful, charming, loves music and dance. She was diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder after medical investigations due to significant motor and language delays. For Alexa, going to the park, playing soccer or taking a “regular” dance class is difficult. She wants to be like the others, but realizes in action that she's having trouble, gets angry and often gives up. In terms of language, it's still difficult for her to form clear sentences to be understood, or to follow instructions. So we needed a suitable activity to match her interests, to get her moving and encourage the development of motor skills.
It was after a bit of Internet research that my husband and I discovered Les Grands Ballets Canadiens' National Centre for Dance Therapy (CNDT). It offered dance classes adapted for children like Alexa, close to home, accessible by metro and inexpensive. When we first enrolled Alexa, the class was full, but this year we were able to enroll her in Creative Dance - Autism (ages 4 to 8) for the winter session.
When the first course arrived, I was worried. We had tried several activities, only to unsubscribe Alexa because the format didn't work. On our last attempt, she refused to participate, came back to us crying and we had to end the class after 5 minutes, apologizing for the inconvenience. The experience was totally different at the CNDT. The people who welcome us are calm, warm, reassuring, patient and used to dealing with customers. The group is small, the children's pace is respected and there are enough instructors to supervise the participants. After each class, Alexa comes out smiling and giggling. On Sundays, even though walking is difficult for her, she's energetic and can't wait to get to her class to “go dancing with friends”.
As a mom, I was surprised to learn that I didn't have to follow my daughter around the class to manage her. On the contrary, I'd be picked up if anything came up. So the course has become a time of respite during which I can network with other parents who are going through situations that are sometimes similar to, and sometimes different from, mine. I've even been able to get referrals for organizations, camps, schools, other activities that work well for other kids. Just like Alexa in her group, I have the opportunity to develop bonds with other parents while having the peace of mind that my daughter is having fun, developing her coordination and sense of rhythm in a safe environment. This activity is truly precious, both for me and for my daughter.
In closing, I'd like to thank everyone who contributes in any way to the National Centre for Dance Therapy. Whether you're one of the people involved in the classes or on a more administrative level, I want you to know that your work is important, meaningful and makes a difference. Thank you all.
