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krowboom Loyal user Chicago area 233 Posts |
I am doing a show for autistic kids and adults. They range from higher functioning to very low (non-verbal). I have done shows for kids with other disabilities like Downs, and other learning disabilities but never for an exclusively autistic audience.
I am thinking to do magic that is mostly visual and easy to understand but any help would be greatly appreciated. |
1KJ Inner circle Warning: We will run out of new tricks in 4385 Posts |
I would suggest you try to incorporate props they will recognize, like perhaps Disney characters, etc. Autistic kids and adults like the familiar.
Keep the program moving. Many autistic kids and adults are highly intelligent and can process information a lot faster than you and I. You might want to do magic that doesn't require participant interaction. Let them enjoy the magic without having to come up on stage to participate in something that might be out of their comfort zone. Finally, have fun and they probably will too! KJ |
Doug Trouten Elite user Minnesota 471 Posts |
What a great question! I'm a teacher, and it's not unusual for me to have a student who falls somewhere on the autism spectrum. One thing I've seen is that these students have to do two jobs: in addition to following the presentation or activity itself, they also have to try to make sense of the confusing social world around them. Their responses aren't always what you expect, and you just need to be ready to roll with it.
If you are doing something that involves an audience member, you'll probably find that simple, clear, concrete, sequential instructions are the way to go. Simplifying choices is a useful strategy. Figurative language, idioms and sarcasm are likely to confuse, and your audience members may have trouble "reading" emotional cues and facial expressions. Remember that the people you are dealing with may be concerned about their own ability to do what is expected of them. When you tell somebody to "Take a card, any card," they may still be anxious about picking the "right" card. A Google search for "autism tips for teachers" might turn up some useful ideas that could be adapted for your show. Good luck! Please report back and let us know how things go!
It's still magic even if you know how it's done.
Terry Pratchett |
funsway Inner circle old things in new ways - new things in old ways 9982 Posts |
Contact Ricky Boone with insights from personal experience with all kinds of disabilities and magic, and impact of the "Vanishing Wheelchair project."
From my experience, having objects grabbed suddenly is possible and you should be prepared. Also, you are performing for family members, care providers and possibly administration persons as well depending on the setting. Some effects should be designed to gain future bookings fro persons with other disabilities, senior centers, rehab facilities, etc. The respect and concern you show for the special persons will go far.
"the more one pretends at magic, the more awe and wonder will be found in real life." Arnold Furst
eBooks at https://www.lybrary.com/ken-muller-m-579928.html questions at ken@eversway.com |
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