In continuation of our celebration of Autistic voices, we're diving deep into the world of dance and neurodiversity with Amanda Trisdale and Leta Rundell, the dynamic duo behind the Autistic Wings Dance Company. Right off the bat, they tackle how traditional dance environments often fall short for autistic kids, leaving them feeling sidelined and misunderstood. Amanda shares her personal journey, revealing how her own experiences with autism shaped the way they run their dance studio—where inclusivity is not just a buzzword, but the very foundation. With a maximum of four students per class, they’re flipping the script on what dance can be, ensuring each child gets the personalized attention they deserve. So, whether you're a dance enthusiast or just curious about fostering an inclusive space, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and a sprinkle of inspiration that you won't want to miss!

As I chat with Amanda Trisdale and Leta Rundell, the founders of Autistic Wings Dance Company, I’m struck by the sheer determination that went into making their dream a reality. Their journey began with the simple act of dance—specifically, tap dancing—when Amanda's daughter Leta found her groove. Initially, it was a joyous discovery, but soon Amanda faced the harsh reality of a dance world that often overlooks the needs of autistic children. With teachers who didn’t quite understand Leta's behaviors and struggles, it became clear that the traditional studios weren’t cutting it. This led to a pivotal moment that drove them to create an entirely new space dedicated to nurturing autistic talent.

In our conversation, we delve into the philosophy behind Autistic Wings. The focus here is not just on dance, but on creating a community where autistic dancers can express themselves freely. By limiting class sizes to four students, they ensure that every child receives the attention and support they need to flourish. It’s fascinating how Amanda explains that many existing dance classes, even those labeled as “autistic,” often fail to accommodate the full spectrum of needs within the community. Their approach is refreshingly unique, rooted in understanding and compassion, which is the backbone of their teaching methods. We share a few laughs as they recount some of the more humorous challenges of teaching dance to kids who might interpret rules a little differently—like turning a dance move into a personal expression of joy!

Wrapping up, we discuss the future goals of the company, which include expanding their reach and encouraging other dance studios to adopt similar inclusive practices. The conversation leaves listeners feeling inspired and motivated to support such necessary changes in the arts community. I walk away with a heart full of hope, knowing that with leaders like Amanda and Leta, the dance world is slowly becoming a place where every child can find their rhythm and shine.

Takeaways:

• Creating a dance studio specifically for autistic kids allows for a tailored approach that traditional studios often overlook, making dance accessible and enjoyable.
• The journey of building Autistic Wings Dance Company highlights the importance of understanding neurodiversity through a community-driven lens, rather than a 'one-size-fits-all' method.
• Having classes with a maximum of four students ensures that each child receives individualized attention, promoting a supportive environment that nurtures their unique talents.
• The founders' determination to create a safe space for autistic dancers stems from personal experiences, demonstrating how advocacy can transform lives and foster community.
• It's vital to eliminate misconceptions about autism in dance education; understanding that each autistic individual has different needs can create a more inclusive atmosphere.
• The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, proving that there's a significant demand for specialized programs that celebrate neurodiversity in the arts.

Links referenced in this episode:

• fostertoforever.com
• foster2forever.com
• autisticwingsdancecompany.org
• https://www.letatapstyles.com/
• https://www.youtube.com/@letatapstyles

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Autistic Wings Dance Company
• Chloe Arnold
• Foster to Forever
• Aquarius Rising
• Joe Fulginiti