Showcase of Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavors (SOURCE)

Dance as a Tool for Proprioceptive Training for Children on the Autism Spectrum

There are many questions on the topic of balance and proprioception in dance, specifically on the subject of children with sensory challenges. Children on the autism spectrum often have difficulty with their balance and proprioception. Could dance help give children the tools to develop these senses? This research paper discusses these questions and focuses on the possible benefits of dance for children who may have sensory issues. How does our sense of balance work, and does every individual’s work the same? What is proprioception? Emotional and social dance therapy is common among children on the autism spectrum, but would children benefit if there were more emphasis placed on the physical aspect of dance therapy? Research of dance and its kinesthetic impact on proprioception is used to answer these questions and give an explanation of the physical benefits dance may have for children on the autism spectrum.