How does drama effect social communication?
Drama therapy can help individuals on the spectrum learn to recognize important social cues, develop skills in communication, movement, pretend play, and social interaction
But how?
It is extremely important to create a positive environment for communication for children with Autism. These environments show kids the positive outcomes that can come from communication. Within these environments, children with ASD often display improved communication, greater independence and deeper relationships. As a type of intervention that implements aspects of drama and theatre, drama therapy is an excellent way to promote the positive, interactive environment that has proven to be so vital for individuals with ASD.
But how?
It is extremely important to create a positive environment for communication for children with Autism. These environments show kids the positive outcomes that can come from communication. Within these environments, children with ASD often display improved communication, greater independence and deeper relationships. As a type of intervention that implements aspects of drama and theatre, drama therapy is an excellent way to promote the positive, interactive environment that has proven to be so vital for individuals with ASD.
- Drama therapy involves the use of improvisation, role-play, mime, music and movement, storytelling, masks and rituals, puppetry, theatre games and scripted drama as a therapeutic vehicle.
- It is an effective type of therapy for ASD because it keeps the children engaged by using surprises and originality.
- It integrates aspects of cognitive, emotional and social development into therapy activities.
- Researchers have found when an activity is fun and playful; a child’s brain will "slip out of gear" which can strengthen brain activity and the development of flexible thought patterns.
References:
- Autism Community. (2013). Strategies and solutions. Retrieved from http://www.autism-community.com/communication/strategies-and-solutions/
- Crimmens, P. (2006). Drama therapy and storymaking in special education. Philadelphia, PA: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
- Corbett, B.A., Gunther, J.R., Comins, D., Price, J., Ryan, N., Simon, D., Schupp, C.W., & Rios, T. (2011). Brief Report: Theatre as therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 41(4), 505-511. DOI: 10.1007/s10803-010-1064-1
- Kempe, A. & Tissot, C. (2012). The use of drama to teach social skills in a special school setting for students with autism. British Journal of Learning Support, 27(3), 97-102. DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-9604.2012.01526.x
- Peter, M. (2009). Drama: Narrative pedagogy and socially challenged children. British Journal of Special Education, 36, 9-17. DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-8578.2009.00414.x