How
did we
do it?
did we
do it?
Here is how we set up our program! This is what worked for us, but feel free to do what works for you!
Before Drama Preschool Program
During Drama Preschool Program
-Each program day was 45 minutes long
-We had between 5-10 kids, depending on their availability
-One important aspect was that we had an older student (in our case, college students) paired with each child to assist them and encourage them throughout the program
-Parents were allowed in the room if they were needed
After Drama Preschool Program
- Participants were recruited through fliers and connections to similar programs
- Researchers and drama program volunteers met to discuss each child's communication skills and to prepare for each drama session
- Lesson plans were reviewed and adjusted as needed to match the children's communication goals
- A low-tech AAC board was created to facilitate communication during the drama program
During Drama Preschool Program
- The program was implemented and necessary changes were made after the first session. Information about the features of the program are listed below:
-Each program day was 45 minutes long
-We had between 5-10 kids, depending on their availability
-One important aspect was that we had an older student (in our case, college students) paired with each child to assist them and encourage them throughout the program
-Parents were allowed in the room if they were needed
After Drama Preschool Program
- The website was created to allow for expansion of the program
- Handouts were added to the site to aid in the recreation of the program as well as providing education to families and educators
- Social communication Skills we targeted!
- Imitation
- Pretend Play
- Turn Taking
- Generating Ideas (verbally or nonverbally)
Other tips!
- Encourage all types of communication, both verbal and non verbal!
- Don't overwhelm the kids. Let them get comfortable with the new situation in their own time.
- Most importantly, HAVE FUN!