Creating an Inclusive Dance Class: Supporting Autistic Students
Rob Howarth
April 8, 2025
5 min read
Creating an Inclusive Dance Class: Supporting Autistic Students
Rob Howarth
April 8, 2025
5 min read
Creating an Inclusive Dance Class: Supporting Autistic Students
Rob Howarth
April 8, 2025
5 min read
Things that come naturally or easily to some children can be more of a struggle for children with autism or autistic tendencies.
Dance is a powerful tool that has a wide range of benefits for children, teenagers, and adults of all abilities. This is why it’s so important to ensure that your dance classes and studio are inclusive and accommodating to those with autism.
At Class Manager, we believe that children of all ages and abilities should have the opportunity to dance. With one out of 88 children in the US diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), inclusion should be the norm everywhere. Read on to find out how you can ensure that you’re creating an inclusive environment at your dance studio.
Things that come naturally or easily to some children can be more of a struggle for children with autism or autistic tendencies.
Dance is a powerful tool that has a wide range of benefits for children, teenagers, and adults of all abilities. This is why it’s so important to ensure that your dance classes and studio are inclusive and accommodating to those with autism.
At Class Manager, we believe that children of all ages and abilities should have the opportunity to dance. With one out of 88 children in the US diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), inclusion should be the norm everywhere. Read on to find out how you can ensure that you’re creating an inclusive environment at your dance studio.
Things that come naturally or easily to some children can be more of a struggle for children with autism or autistic tendencies.
Dance is a powerful tool that has a wide range of benefits for children, teenagers, and adults of all abilities. This is why it’s so important to ensure that your dance classes and studio are inclusive and accommodating to those with autism.
At Class Manager, we believe that children of all ages and abilities should have the opportunity to dance. With one out of 88 children in the US diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), inclusion should be the norm everywhere. Read on to find out how you can ensure that you’re creating an inclusive environment at your dance studio.
Things that come naturally or easily to some children can be more of a struggle for children with autism or autistic tendencies.
Dance is a powerful tool that has a wide range of benefits for children, teenagers, and adults of all abilities. This is why it’s so important to ensure that your dance classes and studio are inclusive and accommodating to those with autism.
At Class Manager, we believe that children of all ages and abilities should have the opportunity to dance. With one out of 88 children in the US diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), inclusion should be the norm everywhere. Read on to find out how you can ensure that you’re creating an inclusive environment at your dance studio.
Things that come naturally or easily to some children can be more of a struggle for children with autism or autistic tendencies.
Dance is a powerful tool that has a wide range of benefits for children, teenagers, and adults of all abilities. This is why it’s so important to ensure that your dance classes and studio are inclusive and accommodating to those with autism.
At Class Manager, we believe that children of all ages and abilities should have the opportunity to dance. With one out of 88 children in the US diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), inclusion should be the norm everywhere. Read on to find out how you can ensure that you’re creating an inclusive environment at your dance studio.
Why Does Inclusion in Dance Matter?
Dance, expressing emotions, and connecting with others through movement, is a fundamental part of human nature. Expressing yourself exclusively through dance is an invaluable tool for confidence, creativity, and social interaction.
For autistic children, navigating social environments and adapting to new spaces can sometimes be challenging. This is why inclusion in dance is so important. By creating an inclusive dance class, studio owners can ensure that all students, regardless of their neurodiversity, have the chance to thrive, express themselves, and build meaningful connections.
Why Does Inclusion in Dance Matter?
Dance, expressing emotions, and connecting with others through movement, is a fundamental part of human nature. Expressing yourself exclusively through dance is an invaluable tool for confidence, creativity, and social interaction.
For autistic children, navigating social environments and adapting to new spaces can sometimes be challenging. This is why inclusion in dance is so important. By creating an inclusive dance class, studio owners can ensure that all students, regardless of their neurodiversity, have the chance to thrive, express themselves, and build meaningful connections.
Why Does Inclusion in Dance Matter?
Dance, expressing emotions, and connecting with others through movement, is a fundamental part of human nature. Expressing yourself exclusively through dance is an invaluable tool for confidence, creativity, and social interaction.
For autistic children, navigating social environments and adapting to new spaces can sometimes be challenging. This is why inclusion in dance is so important. By creating an inclusive dance class, studio owners can ensure that all students, regardless of their neurodiversity, have the chance to thrive, express themselves, and build meaningful connections.
Why Does Inclusion in Dance Matter?
Dance, expressing emotions, and connecting with others through movement, is a fundamental part of human nature. Expressing yourself exclusively through dance is an invaluable tool for confidence, creativity, and social interaction.
For autistic children, navigating social environments and adapting to new spaces can sometimes be challenging. This is why inclusion in dance is so important. By creating an inclusive dance class, studio owners can ensure that all students, regardless of their neurodiversity, have the chance to thrive, express themselves, and build meaningful connections.
Why Does Inclusion in Dance Matter?
Dance, expressing emotions, and connecting with others through movement, is a fundamental part of human nature. Expressing yourself exclusively through dance is an invaluable tool for confidence, creativity, and social interaction.
For autistic children, navigating social environments and adapting to new spaces can sometimes be challenging. This is why inclusion in dance is so important. By creating an inclusive dance class, studio owners can ensure that all students, regardless of their neurodiversity, have the chance to thrive, express themselves, and build meaningful connections.
How Dance Benefits Autistic Students
Dance offers numerous benefits for children on the autism spectrum, regardless of the severity of their diagnosis. Some key benefits include:
Promotes and encourages social growth by providing structured interactions in a supportive environment.
Fosters emotional connections with teachers and peers outside of their usual groups.
Boosts confidence as students learn new skills and experience a sense of achievement.
Encourages problem-solving skills, especially when creating and choreographing new movement sequences.
Enhances coordination and motor skills through repetitive movement patterns.
Improves both physical and mental health, contributing to overall well-being.
Additionally, some families of selectively mute children have noticed an increase in their willingness to communicate and engage verbally over time.
How Dance Benefits Autistic Students
Dance offers numerous benefits for children on the autism spectrum, regardless of the severity of their diagnosis. Some key benefits include:
Promotes and encourages social growth by providing structured interactions in a supportive environment.
Fosters emotional connections with teachers and peers outside of their usual groups.
Boosts confidence as students learn new skills and experience a sense of achievement.
Encourages problem-solving skills, especially when creating and choreographing new movement sequences.
Enhances coordination and motor skills through repetitive movement patterns.
Improves both physical and mental health, contributing to overall well-being.
Additionally, some families of selectively mute children have noticed an increase in their willingness to communicate and engage verbally over time.
How Dance Benefits Autistic Students
Dance offers numerous benefits for children on the autism spectrum, regardless of the severity of their diagnosis. Some key benefits include:
Promotes and encourages social growth by providing structured interactions in a supportive environment.
Fosters emotional connections with teachers and peers outside of their usual groups.
Boosts confidence as students learn new skills and experience a sense of achievement.
Encourages problem-solving skills, especially when creating and choreographing new movement sequences.
Enhances coordination and motor skills through repetitive movement patterns.
Improves both physical and mental health, contributing to overall well-being.
Additionally, some families of selectively mute children have noticed an increase in their willingness to communicate and engage verbally over time.
How Dance Benefits Autistic Students
Dance offers numerous benefits for children on the autism spectrum, regardless of the severity of their diagnosis. Some key benefits include:
Promotes and encourages social growth by providing structured interactions in a supportive environment.
Fosters emotional connections with teachers and peers outside of their usual groups.
Boosts confidence as students learn new skills and experience a sense of achievement.
Encourages problem-solving skills, especially when creating and choreographing new movement sequences.
Enhances coordination and motor skills through repetitive movement patterns.
Improves both physical and mental health, contributing to overall well-being.
Additionally, some families of selectively mute children have noticed an increase in their willingness to communicate and engage verbally over time.
How Dance Benefits Autistic Students
Dance offers numerous benefits for children on the autism spectrum, regardless of the severity of their diagnosis. Some key benefits include:
Promotes and encourages social growth by providing structured interactions in a supportive environment.
Fosters emotional connections with teachers and peers outside of their usual groups.
Boosts confidence as students learn new skills and experience a sense of achievement.
Encourages problem-solving skills, especially when creating and choreographing new movement sequences.
Enhances coordination and motor skills through repetitive movement patterns.
Improves both physical and mental health, contributing to overall well-being.
Additionally, some families of selectively mute children have noticed an increase in their willingness to communicate and engage verbally over time.
So, How Can You Help Autistic Students In Your Dance Classes?
It’s important to note that not all children are the same, regardless of whether they’re neurodivergent or not. However, they’re are certainly things that can be done to help care for children with autism in your classes.
As with any teacher-student relationship, it’s important to understand the autistic child (as best as you can, so you can figure out what best works for them.
Dance classes naturally include three core elements, structure, routine, and sequencing, which have been shown to benefit children with autism. To help autistic students feel more comfortable and confident during lessons, you may want to add the following elements to your lessons:
Provide a session outline in advance. Let them know how the class will be structured so they know what to expect.
Communicate changes ahead of time. For example, if you’ll be using new music next class, tell them at the end of the current session.
Keep music volume at a comfortable level. Use high-quality audio to minimize sensory discomfort.
Use both visual and verbal instructions. This ensures all students can better understand and follow what’s being taught.
Set clear expectations. Encourage precision in movements, understanding it may take autistic students more time to master steps. Don’t lower your standards, but do offer patience and support.
Pair them with a buddy. A peer can serve as a helpful model and support during class.
Offer regular praise. Acknowledge their efforts and progress to boost confidence and motivation.Create a safe observation space. Allow them to step back and watch if they feel overwhelmed, but make it clear that dancing isn't permitted during a tantrum.
So, How Can You Help Autistic Students In Your Dance Classes?
It’s important to note that not all children are the same, regardless of whether they’re neurodivergent or not. However, they’re are certainly things that can be done to help care for children with autism in your classes.
As with any teacher-student relationship, it’s important to understand the autistic child (as best as you can, so you can figure out what best works for them.
Dance classes naturally include three core elements, structure, routine, and sequencing, which have been shown to benefit children with autism. To help autistic students feel more comfortable and confident during lessons, you may want to add the following elements to your lessons:
Provide a session outline in advance. Let them know how the class will be structured so they know what to expect.
Communicate changes ahead of time. For example, if you’ll be using new music next class, tell them at the end of the current session.
Keep music volume at a comfortable level. Use high-quality audio to minimize sensory discomfort.
Use both visual and verbal instructions. This ensures all students can better understand and follow what’s being taught.
Set clear expectations. Encourage precision in movements, understanding it may take autistic students more time to master steps. Don’t lower your standards, but do offer patience and support.
Pair them with a buddy. A peer can serve as a helpful model and support during class.
Offer regular praise. Acknowledge their efforts and progress to boost confidence and motivation.Create a safe observation space. Allow them to step back and watch if they feel overwhelmed, but make it clear that dancing isn't permitted during a tantrum.
So, How Can You Help Autistic Students In Your Dance Classes?
It’s important to note that not all children are the same, regardless of whether they’re neurodivergent or not. However, they’re are certainly things that can be done to help care for children with autism in your classes.
As with any teacher-student relationship, it’s important to understand the autistic child (as best as you can, so you can figure out what best works for them.
Dance classes naturally include three core elements, structure, routine, and sequencing, which have been shown to benefit children with autism. To help autistic students feel more comfortable and confident during lessons, you may want to add the following elements to your lessons:
Provide a session outline in advance. Let them know how the class will be structured so they know what to expect.
Communicate changes ahead of time. For example, if you’ll be using new music next class, tell them at the end of the current session.
Keep music volume at a comfortable level. Use high-quality audio to minimize sensory discomfort.
Use both visual and verbal instructions. This ensures all students can better understand and follow what’s being taught.
Set clear expectations. Encourage precision in movements, understanding it may take autistic students more time to master steps. Don’t lower your standards, but do offer patience and support.
Pair them with a buddy. A peer can serve as a helpful model and support during class.
Offer regular praise. Acknowledge their efforts and progress to boost confidence and motivation.Create a safe observation space. Allow them to step back and watch if they feel overwhelmed, but make it clear that dancing isn't permitted during a tantrum.
So, How Can You Help Autistic Students In Your Dance Classes?
It’s important to note that not all children are the same, regardless of whether they’re neurodivergent or not. However, they’re are certainly things that can be done to help care for children with autism in your classes.
As with any teacher-student relationship, it’s important to understand the autistic child (as best as you can, so you can figure out what best works for them.
Dance classes naturally include three core elements, structure, routine, and sequencing, which have been shown to benefit children with autism. To help autistic students feel more comfortable and confident during lessons, you may want to add the following elements to your lessons:
Provide a session outline in advance. Let them know how the class will be structured so they know what to expect.
Communicate changes ahead of time. For example, if you’ll be using new music next class, tell them at the end of the current session.
Keep music volume at a comfortable level. Use high-quality audio to minimize sensory discomfort.
Use both visual and verbal instructions. This ensures all students can better understand and follow what’s being taught.
Set clear expectations. Encourage precision in movements, understanding it may take autistic students more time to master steps. Don’t lower your standards, but do offer patience and support.
Pair them with a buddy. A peer can serve as a helpful model and support during class.
Offer regular praise. Acknowledge their efforts and progress to boost confidence and motivation.Create a safe observation space. Allow them to step back and watch if they feel overwhelmed, but make it clear that dancing isn't permitted during a tantrum.
Helpful Resources for Dance Teachers
As dance studio owners and teachers, we know that you play a huge role in your students' lives and work with 100s of students every week. However, with these easily to action steps, you can ensure that children of all abilities feel safe, seen, and accommodated in your classes.
Other helpful resources include:
United Kingdom
National Autistic Society – Practical strategies for educators
www.autism.org.ukDanceSyndrome – Inclusive dance company with training resources
www.dancesyndrome.co.uk
United States
Autism Speaks – Toolkits and resources for teachers
www.autismspeaks.orgNational Dance Education Organization (NDEO) – Inclusive dance education resources
www.ndeo.orgAutistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) – First-person, neurodiversity-informed guides
www.autisticadvocacy.org
Australia
Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) – Teaching tips and training
www.autismspectrum.org.au
Arts Access Australia – Resources for inclusive arts education
www.artsaccessaustralia.org
For more information, see our blog posts:
As dance studio owners and teachers, we know that you play a huge role in your students' lives and work with 100s of students every week. However, with these easily to action steps, you can ensure that children of all abilities feel safe, seen, and accommodated in your classes.
Other helpful resources include:
United Kingdom
National Autistic Society – Practical strategies for educators
www.autism.org.ukDanceSyndrome – Inclusive dance company with training resources
www.dancesyndrome.co.uk
United States
Autism Speaks – Toolkits and resources for teachers
www.autismspeaks.orgNational Dance Education Organization (NDEO) – Inclusive dance education resources
www.ndeo.orgAutistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) – First-person, neurodiversity-informed guides
www.autisticadvocacy.org
Australia
Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) – Teaching tips and training
www.autismspectrum.org.au
Arts Access Australia – Resources for inclusive arts education
www.artsaccessaustralia.org
For more information, see our blog posts:
As dance studio owners and teachers, we know that you play a huge role in your students' lives and work with 100s of students every week. However, with these easily to action steps, you can ensure that children of all abilities feel safe, seen, and accommodated in your classes.
Other helpful resources include:
United Kingdom
National Autistic Society – Practical strategies for educators
www.autism.org.ukDanceSyndrome – Inclusive dance company with training resources
www.dancesyndrome.co.uk
United States
Autism Speaks – Toolkits and resources for teachers
www.autismspeaks.orgNational Dance Education Organization (NDEO) – Inclusive dance education resources
www.ndeo.orgAutistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) – First-person, neurodiversity-informed guides
www.autisticadvocacy.org
Australia
Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) – Teaching tips and training
www.autismspectrum.org.au
Arts Access Australia – Resources for inclusive arts education
www.artsaccessaustralia.org
For more information, see our blog posts:
As dance studio owners and teachers, we know that you play a huge role in your students' lives and work with 100s of students every week. However, with these easily to action steps, you can ensure that children of all abilities feel safe, seen, and accommodated in your classes.
Other helpful resources include:
United Kingdom
National Autistic Society – Practical strategies for educators
www.autism.org.ukDanceSyndrome – Inclusive dance company with training resources
www.dancesyndrome.co.uk
United States
Autism Speaks – Toolkits and resources for teachers
www.autismspeaks.orgNational Dance Education Organization (NDEO) – Inclusive dance education resources
www.ndeo.orgAutistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) – First-person, neurodiversity-informed guides
www.autisticadvocacy.org
Australia
Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) – Teaching tips and training
www.autismspectrum.org.au
Arts Access Australia – Resources for inclusive arts education
www.artsaccessaustralia.org
For more information, see our blog posts:
As dance studio owners and teachers, we know that you play a huge role in your students' lives and work with 100s of students every week. However, with these easily to action steps, you can ensure that children of all abilities feel safe, seen, and accommodated in your classes.
Other helpful resources include:
United Kingdom
National Autistic Society – Practical strategies for educators
www.autism.org.ukDanceSyndrome – Inclusive dance company with training resources
www.dancesyndrome.co.uk
United States
Autism Speaks – Toolkits and resources for teachers
www.autismspeaks.orgNational Dance Education Organization (NDEO) – Inclusive dance education resources
www.ndeo.orgAutistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) – First-person, neurodiversity-informed guides
www.autisticadvocacy.org
Australia
Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) – Teaching tips and training
www.autismspectrum.org.au
Arts Access Australia – Resources for inclusive arts education
www.artsaccessaustralia.org
For more information, see our blog posts:
© Class Manager 2025, All Rights Reserved
© Class Manager 2025, All Rights Reserved
© Class Manager 2025, All Rights Reserved
© Class Manager 2025, All Rights Reserved