Autism Drama Outreach Program
Using a variety of dramatic techniques, Theatre Horizon has developed a drama program that strives to inspire imaginary play and encourage interest in human relationships, which are some of the key challenges in children with autism.
Winter Workshop Dates
February 4, 2012
February 11, 2012
February 18, 2012
February 25, 2012
March 3, 2012
March 10, 2012
Interested parents should contact Michael McElroy at Michael@TheatreHorizon.org or 610-283-2230.
Our Goals:
- To inspire imagination and flexible thinking
- To help children find their own voice
- To teach social skills in a fun and positive way
"Theatre Horizon's Autism Drama Outreach program is an amazing and vital program. I had a difficult time finding a program that would interest my teenaged autistic son. When a friend recommended this program, my son's life changed dramatically. Theatre has become his passion, and this program taught him important skills."
Denise M. from Orleand, PA, parent of a child with autism
"Tyler doesn't talk about it, but I know he likes it because he is happy when I tell him we are going and he is happy when he leaves."
Al B. from West Chester, parent of a child with autism.
Our Approach:
Our program is influenced by many different types of therapies and programs for children on the autism spectrum. Using core principles of the Son-Rise approach, floor-time therapy as well as modified and un-modified acting lessons and activities for children, we provide a program that supports and loves each individual child for who he or she is. We discover each child's unique and individual motivations and build off of them, encouraging relationships and creative play.
We often create custom-made games that cross the child's motivations with our goals for them. Along with teaching the basics of drama, we incorporate principles of the three E's (energy, enthusiasm and excitement!), non-judgment, acceptance and tons of encouragement. We are mindful that the kids we work with are…kids! Therefore, we try to be silly, fun and interesting to watch. We are the child's very active, energetic and imaginative play partner.
Our underlying goal is to help the students feel good about themselves while engaging in dramatic play with an accepting and encouraging friend.
Links to other Resources
The Autism Treatment Center of America™, is the worldwide teaching
center for The Son-Rise Program(R), a powerful and effective treatment for children and adults challenged by Autism, Autism Spectrum
Disorders, Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), Asperger's
Syndrome, and other developmental difficulties.
The Son-Rise Program was originated in 1974 by parents, Barry Neil
Kaufman (best-selling author, Son-Rise: The Miracle Continues) and
Samahria Lyte Kaufman for their son. The treatment and educational
model has changed the way children with Autism are helped worldwide.
All Son-Rise Programs are designed especially for parents to teach
parents how to effectively help and work with their children.
