Advantages of Theater and Dramatherapy for Kids with Autism
Guest contribution by Andréas RB Deolinda, BA, BSc.
As an educational presenter who has worked in special schools, I know that a lot of people have a modernized idea of what theater and drama is – they think about Broadway, the West End, etc., and see theater only as a performance. I have to admit I used to have a similar opinion, but now, having graduated from Acting Therapy, I really know that theater is a great learning tool and experiential expression.
From a drama-therapeutic point of view, theater is used as a means of healing, while applied drama and theater explore facets of human experience from a social perspective. Elements of theater such as improvisation, role play, role staging, games, and storytelling can all be used to create narratives and find meaning behind our unconscious and lived experiences.
Drama Therapy Pioneer Sue Jennings comments, “Drama therapy is based on two fundamental hypotheses. First, there is an intrinsic relationship between the healing arts and the essence of the dramatic arts. Second, that man is not only capable of personal growth and change through staging and re-enactment, but actually continuously preserves his social and individual identity … The drama therapy process tries to bring about healing and change, therefore it differs from drama that is for its own sake or be done for pure entertainment. “
How does all of this have to do with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? Well, many people on the spectrum are known to struggle with social skills, communication, fear, and friendships. When a broad understanding of theater is developed it is clear that there are so many therapeutic benefits for children with autism. I will only outline a few below.
Mental and Physical Benefits of Theater for Autistic Children
- Theater can be verbal and non-verbal. In theater we use sounds, props, drawings, dance or movement to tell a story or explore a topic. This makes it beneficial for children with autism as it uses different means of communication (something that many autistic children struggle with). It is also a sensory experience that explores different media and can cater to each child with their individual skills / needs.
- Theater is a form of expression. Through embodiment, storytelling, or staging, the child is able to translate or express their inner feelings and release their emotions in a safe space. The dialogue about the theatrical process enables deeper exploration. If a particular topic is close to your home, you can create another story that incorporates elements of that experience and act out – this method will distance the child from their situation while still allowing them to express what they are going through. You can even introduce a mask and ask the child to act out their story by giving the mask the character of their choice.
- Theater develops the imagination. Theater is metaphorical. It enables children to advance their own narrative through play, storytelling, or staging rather than being a direct vehicle for questions or conversation. It gives children on the Autism Spectrum Initiative the opportunity to introduce themselves and explore new characters and worlds. For children with ASD, who are generally more comfortable with routine and rigidity, it can open up new worlds and adventures.
- Theater builds language and language. Practitioners and workshop leaders can choose to use scripts or involve children in verbal activities such as tongue twisters and singing. All of this can help develop the language and strengthen dialogue for children on the spectrum.
- Theater is good for people’s skills. Theater can encourage autistic children to play with their peers in a supportive, exploratory setting. The activities and workshops encourage alternation and collaboration in a natural way and give the children the opportunity to create in a group environment.
Sum up
Children with autism or additional needs can benefit from theater programs as there are no right or wrong answers in theater. As long as there is a safe space for the child and a supportive environment, theater can use any medium to achieve and achieve so many goals.
Theater is universal. It incorporates the skills of each person because it can be tailored to the needs of each individual. For children on the autism spectrum, theater and drama therapy allow them to immerse themselves in and embody narrative, thereby promoting a stronger connection with imagination, developing social and communication skills, incorporating sensory games, and much more.
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