Published • loading... • Updated
People with Down Syndrome and Other Disabilities Find Their Rhythm in Indiana Dance Program
The program has expanded from a summer camp to year-round classes for about 20 people, with tailored instruction and physical guidance.
- Dance Abilities, a program in Fishers, Ind., provides inclusive dance classes for people with physical and intellectual disabilities, founded by Claire Graham.
- Graham started the program after realizing her sister with Down syndrome could not connect with traditional dance activities, designing it as an accepting space.
- Accommodations include slowing down for students with Down syndrome or assisting those with autism with stretching, using visual cues and teacher helpers to physically guide students.
- Students like 13-year-old Tucker McGarrell and Finn Vester build confidence and communication skills through dance. "It's just such a huge thing that Tucker's given a space and a stage to be himself," Amanda McGarrell said.
- The program has grown in three years from a summer camp for eight youngsters to year-round classes for about 20 people. Graham believes students can "100% grow" when given the chance to succeed.
Insights by Ground AI
14 Articles
14 Articles
People with Down syndrome and other disabilities find their rhythm in
From left, Amelia Woods sits in front as Samantha Hatch holds Elsie Bickett, while Maliyah Rider stands next to Claire Graham in front of a mirror during a Dance Abilities class at the Academy of Dance Arts in the Indianapolis suburb of Fishers, Ind., Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026. (AP Photo/Obed Lamy)
·Baltimore, United States
Read Full Article
Winnipeg Free Press+11 Reposted by 11 other sources
People with Down syndrome and other disabilities find their rhythm in Indiana dance program
FISHERS, Ind. (AP) — Finn Vester, who has autism and Down syndrome, tried a martial arts class but it proved unsuitable because he learns differently, his mother said.
·Winnipeg, Canada
Read Full ArticleCoverage Details
Total News Sources14
Leaning Left8Leaning Right1Center5Last UpdatedBias Distribution57% Left
Bias Distribution
- 57% of the sources lean Left
57% Left
L 57%
C 36%
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
