Like Lady Gaga sings, does your child need to “just dance”? Does the rhythm of the music leave them twirling, jumping and jazz hand-ing it all around the house? Did you know that there are many dance studios that offer classes with special needs children in mind? Studios throughout our area have classes with your autistic or physically disabled child in mind.
At Allegro Performing Arts Academy in Kent, a creative movement class offers ballet basics for physically disabled children. At Allegro, there is a “focus on movement exploration to enhance neurological connections and patterns”. More information can be found at allegrodance.com or (253) 813-9630.
Camano Island Dance Academy, on Camano Island, does not have a specific class listed as special needs in their curriculum, however, the owner, Terah Partridge, has a degree in Special Education and has “a deep desire for all children to be able to experience the joys of dance”. At Camano Island Dance, every opportunity will be taken to offer your child a fulfilling and fun environment where your child can thrive. For more information, please call (360)631-4657 or go to camanodance.com.
Kirkland Dance Center, in Kirkland, is an extremely community minded organization which has many outreach programs available for low-income or at-risk children and children with special needs such as autism. Scholarship programs are available and Debbie Walford, the Studio Director, hold her degree in Special Education. Please visit them at kirklanddance.org or call (425) 828-6362.
Emerald Ballet Theater, in Bellevue, offers an “Exceptional Dancers” class for elementary children with physical or developmental special needs. During these classes, children will “explore movement and music in a joyful and nurturing environment. Dancers develop spatial awareness, increased mobility, listening skills, creative expression, and social interaction with peers”. Additional information can be found at emeraldballet.com or (425) 883-3405.
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