This drama syllabus is aimed at those working with low functioning children and young people on the autism spectrum; teachers and trainers running groups for young people with autism; SEN and mainstream schools. Creative arts and drama-therapy are increasingly used to help people with special educational needs to explore, reflect and develop when linguistic ability or intellectual functioning restricts their self-expression.
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This drama syllabus, for use by facilitators with and without drama experience, encourages children on the autistic spectrum to learn, interact and develop. Through storytelling, group activities and arts and crafts, students can improve their social skills, self-expression, vocal and physical skills, and imagination.
During the course, children are encouraged to take part in fun and imaginative activities, including singing, dancing, making sock puppets, and acting in the interactive stories Sandy’s Jungle Adventure and The Land of Smilealot!
The syllabus covers three levels, from low to high functioning. Each is level is one year long and comprises three terms with 12 lessons per term. Level 1 focuses on the body and sensory experience. The content is aimed at children and young people from five to fifteen.
“Abigail Barragry’s wonderful new drama syllabus for children on the autism spectrum offers a three tier course that is easily accessible by both newcomers to the field and also experienced practitioners. At its heart is a belief that drama can be a powerful tool for teaching and learning, even in connection with this very challenging group of children. The courses takes Sue Jennings’ embodiment-projection-role paradigm as one of its underpinning themes, and challenges us to move away from ‘contain and train’ approach to working with autistic children. The documentation is packed with easily accessible practical exercises, which are strongly supported with tips for trainers. I shall be dipping into these materials for many years to come.”
Professor Fraser Brown PhD, Playwork Team, Leeds Metropolitan University
