Dance with the Brain that You Have

An Introduction to Neurodiversity and Neuroinclusion for Dance and Movement Educators

Bikes & Rails, Emilie-Flöge-Weg 4, 1100 Vienna;
6th of June 2024 @ 10am-4pm

We all have different brains. Some brains are more different than others, deviating from a "norm" of cognitive function to such an extent that we don't consider them "typical". Some of these variations are given diagnostic labels, such as ADHD, dyslexia, autism, etc. Sometimes, they emerge "subclinically". In any case, the incidence of neurodivergence in the population is high, with estimates ranging from 10-20%.

⠀The aim of the workshop is for you to become aware of the gaps between your current pedagogy and a neuroinclusive pedagogy and to help you identify how you might adapt your pedagogy and the best practices for doing so.

We will approach this through a mix of theory and practice, including:

  • Basic theories of cognitive neuroscience and how they relate to neurodiversity.

  • An overview of the major neurodivergences and their strengths and challenges, including ADHD, dyslexia and autism.

  • Experiential anatomy of the nervous system and developmental movement derived from Body-Mind Centering®.

  • Practical exploration of best practice in neuroinclusive movement and dance facilitation

  • Small group work focused on mapping your pedagogical practice with respect to the workshop themes.

  • Peer-to-peer exchange.

⠀This workshop is for dance and movement educators interested in inclusive pedagogy. It is open to both neurodivergent and neurotypical people.

If there is interest and commitment from participants, there is the possibility of forming an ongoing peer group focused on developing neuro-inclusive practice.

Facilitator

Sebastian Bechinger is an artist, dramaturge, movement educator and neurodiversity coach from the UK based in Vienna. He studied Choreography with Community Practices at Dartington College of Arts and is a qualified Somatic Movement Educator in Body-Mind Centering, a Systemic Coach and a Dyslexia Support and Learning Coach.

As a Dramaturg, he works with artists in dance, theatre and contemporary circus. As a Neurodiversity Coach, he has a private practice supporting neurodivergent adults to thrive with the brains they have.

He was diagnosed with dyslexia in 2000 and has been exploring neurodiversity ever since.

Cost

€50-90, sliding scale.
Two free bursaries are available. Please enquire.
No one will be excluded on the basis of financial means.