Using Drama with Children on the Autism Spectrum

Suitable for mainstream and special needs teachers, speech and language therapists, and drama teachers and dramatherapists, this book shows how using drama with children across the autism spectrum can help to develop: social skills; playfulness and pretence; verbal and non-verbal communication; and, self-awareness and self-esteem.

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This practical manual contains more than 150 activities for use with children aged 5-11 years old. Written for mainstream and special needs teachers, speech and language therapists, drama teachers and dramatherapists, the book shows how using drama with children across the autism spectrum can help to develop: social skills; playfulness and pretence; verbal and non-verbal communication; and, self-awareness and self-esteem. Taking a developmental approach, the book is divided into two parts: Simple child-focused activities (Units 1-2) for children in a special school setting who are at an early stage of engagement; and Group-orientated activities (Units 3-9) for use in inclusive settings where mixed groups of children, with and without autism, can work together to develop personal and social skills. Each unit focuses on one skill area at a time and follows a similar format which includes a brief theoretical background, a clear set of aims, an assessment profile and a set of drama activities to develop the focus skill. Complete with case studies, photocopiable resources and step-by-step guidance on how to deliver a drama programme, this practical resource will be invaluable for all those who are looking for new ways of engaging children on the autism spectrum.