Creating an Inclusive Dance Class for Autistic Kids: Supporting Students

Apr 7, 2025

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5 min read

Rob Howarth

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, including those with special educational needs and additional needs, should have the opportunity to dance. With one out of 88 children in the US diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), inclusive and accessible opportunities 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 Inclusive 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 support autistic children and other young people with disabilities, ensuring all students can participate and have the chance to thrive, express themselves, build meaningful connections, and improve their wellbeing.

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, while keeping sessions engaging and fun.
Boosts confidence as students learn new skills and experience success.
Encourages problem-solving skills as students develop new ways to create and choreograph movement sequences.
Enhances coordination and motor skills through repetitive movement patterns.
Improves both physical and mental health, contributing to overall well-being and quality of life.

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, and dance class for autistic kids should be approached with the same flexibility you’d use for children with special needs. However, there 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, because you aim to figure out what works best for them.

Dance classes naturally include three core elements: structure, routine, and sequencing, which have been shown to benefit children with autism. Individual differences also matter, including age. To help autistic students feel more comfortable and confident during sessions, and comfortable enough to explore movement at their own pace, 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 and keep the child’s needs at the centre of your planning.
Use both visual and verbal instructions. This supports different learning styles and helps students 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 easy-to-action steps, you can support children with special needs so participants feel safe and included, and encourage fuller participation in your classes.