Adaptive Arts
The Adaptive Arts Program is a holistic approach to promoting physical, emotional, and social well-being through movement and dance.
Our program is tailored to accommodate individuals with diverse abilities, including those with physical and developmental disabilities, cognitive differences, IEPs, and additional needed resources.
Core Principles:
Inclusivity: The program is open to participants of all ages and abilities, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance within a supportive community.
Accessibility: Facilities and activities are adapted to ensure accessibility for individuals with mobility differences, sensory sensitivities, and other needs.
Empowerment: Participants are encouraged to explore their creative potential, build self-confidence, and develop personal agency through movement and dance.
Adaptability: Instruction and choreography are customized to meet the unique needs and preferences of each participant, allowing for maximum engagement and enjoyment.
Collaboration: The program encourages collaboration and cooperation among participants, instructors, caregivers, and volunteers, fostering a sense of teamwork and mutual respect.
Program Components:
Movement Exploration: Participants engage in a variety of movement-based activities, including stretching, strengthening, balance exercises, and improvisational dance exercises. These activities promote physical fitness, body awareness, and motor skill development.
Creative Expression: Through guided improvisation and structured movement sequences, participants have the opportunity to express themselves creatively, exploring different themes, emotions, and narratives through movement and gesture.
Social Interaction: Group activities, partner exercises, and collaborative choreography provide opportunities for participants to connect with one another, develop social skills, and build supportive relationships.
Katelyn Cramer - Dance / Movement Therapist
Katelyn graduated Antioch University New England where she earned a Masters of Arts degree in Dance/Movement Therapy and Counseling. She studied psychomotor development of children, along with focuses on the intellectual/developmental disability and autistic communities, and older adults. Katelyn has been providing dance experiences to Massachusetts and Northeastern Connecticut for 15 years as well as working in various day habilitation and residential programs.
She also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Dance with a minor in Disability Studies from Springfield College where she focused her studies on choreography, modern dance and improvisation, and pedagogy. Katelyn teaches dance classes to all ages at several studios.