InDANCE - Inclusive Dance Autism

Autistic people in Greece, have limited access to dance programs, as there is lack of inclusive dance studios and artistic sport clubs and, thus, they are at risk for an inactive lifestyle, sedentary behaviour, and obesity. Participation in physical activity programs will bring social benefits and reinforce skills-development in autistic individuals who live in the capital of Greece. This project aims to address the lack of organized dance activities for people on autism spectrum in Athens by delivering an educational course for dance professionals, named “Dance that adapts to autism” to increase their knowledge and expertise, enable them to create inclusive dance programs in the target area. Additionally, a pilot scheme will conduct joint dance activities in an indoor environment and in nature as well. This training methodology aims to foster physical competencies, increase creativity, enjoyment, and nature connectedness in people with and without autism, based on personal communication of all participants. A campaign will, also, raise public awareness on autism in Athens, aiming to break the stereotypes of autism and to build social bonds. We will also deliver a 1-day event, named “Be part of the Dance” for sharing the project message to a wider audience. A video-making activity, named “Inclusive dance duets- Our Dance Stories” will also show how the art of dance is an ideal way for, both, people with and without autism to stay fit while having fun, socializing and expressing feelings together. The impact of the project includes (i) skills-development in autistic people, (ii) development of expertise in dance professionals, (iii) increased public disability awareness, (iv) improved digital literacy skills in autistic people and nature connectedness.