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JR Russell New user 69 Posts |
I often do shows where there are special needs or learning disability children. Do you have any advice for magic for special needs teens? kids?
Thanks! |
Danny Orleans V.I.P. Chicago 119 Posts |
Hello JR:
Great question! When I taught Jr. High School, and also as a magician performing in schools, I dealt with Special Needs Children. Your question really needs more specificity, as the phrase "Special Needs" refers to both mental and physical disabilities. There are ENORMOUS differences in these categories and also ENORMOUS differences within each category. I think, if you're going to perform for children with Special Needs, then you need to be sure that you "TURN OFF" that automatic pilot switch that we all have within us after having performed the same show for groups of children hundreds of times. You really have to pay attention and be prepared for non-standard reactions and behavior. It really helps to get educated about the specific special needs group for which you'll be performing. Some children are unable to control verbal outbursts. Others have motor and coordination problems and may be unable to hold a prop. I once performed for children with social development problems and was told to expect socially inappropriate behavior from them. Boy was I surprised (and delighted) when a 7 year old ran toward me after helping on stage and gave me a huge hug. Another time, after a show performing for children with motor coordination problems, I gave the kids a chance to pet my dove. A four year old was overcome by her emotions and couldn't control her hand muscles. As she reached for the bird, her little fingers grabbed a bunch of feathers from the bird's back and yanked them out. The bald spot took a couple of months to fill in. Special needs children can be challenging and satisfying audiences for which to perform. Preparation, paying attention to your audience and a willingness to make changes in your program are a necessity to presenting magic to them successfully. |
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