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Developing an Inclusive Dance Guide for Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Co-Design Process and Initial Feasibility
Eduardo Duarte Machado1,2, Laura Miller1,2, Joanna Nicholas3
1Development and Disability Over the Lifespan, Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, Australia.
Summary
This study co-designed a practical guide to enhance the inclusion of children with cerebral palsy (CP) in community dance classes. The guide offers actionable strategies for inclusive dance, developed collaboratively with families and professionals.
Area of Science:
- Community Health
- Inclusive Education
- Rehabilitation Sciences
Background:
- Children with cerebral palsy (CP) face challenges in accessing inclusive community activities.
- Community participation offers significant benefits for child development.
- Inclusion in community dance classes remains a barrier for many children with CP.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the challenges families of children with CP encounter in accessing community dance.
- To co-design a practical guide for the inclusion of children with CP in dance settings.
Main Methods:
- Collaborative co-design process involving researchers, dance professionals, therapists, and families of children with CP.
- Workshops guided by IAP2 principles with 11 research partners.
- Incorporation of feedback from external 'Dance Teacher Reviewers' for feasibility.
Main Results:
- An evidence-based guide was developed through collaborative efforts and lived experiences.
- The guide provides practical strategies for implementing inclusive dance approaches.
- It effectively supports the inclusion of children with CP in community dance.
Conclusions:
- The co-designed guide is a significant advancement for inclusive dance classes for children with CP.
- Further research is needed to evaluate the guide's effectiveness and implementation feasibility in diverse settings.
