Improvised Theatre and the Autism Spectrum

This guide provides educators, professionals, and parents with an easy-to-follow and comprehensive approach to utilizing improvised theatre as a tool to teach social and communication skills to individuals on the autism spectrum.

"A groundbreaking work for the fields of special education, approaches for working with those on the spectrum, and others dealing with particular mental health challenges."Don Waisanen, PhD, author, Improv for Democracy"The approach described by the authors is quite innovative, both to watch it in action and to read aboutWell planned and organized."Inna Fishman, PhD, associate clinical director, SDSU Brain Development Imaging Laboratories "Combining the art of improvisation along with science-based methodologies, Gary Kramer and Richie Ploesch have created a powerful, unique, and easy-to-use tool for educators and therapists. This transformative curriculum provides a fun and engaging way for neurodiverse individuals to cultivate social connections and is founded in a strengths-based approach to learning. Add this tool to your therapeutic toolbox and watch your students and clients grow in confidence and connectedness."Sue Faber-Pew, MA, Speech-Language Pathologist, San Diego Unified School District "The world is a better place because Mr. Kramer & Mr. Ploesch have written this book. They have provided us a way to enjoy the valuable and creative human capital of those of us with social skill challenges. Hilarity, poignancy, and health benefits are just bonuses to this awesome truth. Hurry up and play."Les McGehee, author, Plays Well with Others

Autorentext

Gary Kramer is a producer, director, and actor, and artistic director and founder of the National Comedy Theatre. In addition, he is the executive director of Unscripted Learning.

Richie Ploesch, MA, BCBA, has been working in the field of special education for over 15 years. His specialty is educating students and young adults with autism spectrum disorder. Richie is the program director of Unscripted Learning.

Inhalt

1. Introduction; 2. Structure of Class; 3. The Games; 4. Sample Curriculum; 5. Terminology