John Addis and Mircalla Havier have been conducting weekly Danceplay classes, in collaboration with Pathways ECI since 2009. The classes are attended by children transitioning out of the Pathways ECI programs and into school life. The Danceplay classes have been provided free to families as a result of funding from United Way and Stockland.
Many of the children love to sing and dance but are not yet able to participate in mainstream dance, music or acting classes. Danceplay is thus a stepping stone, allowing children to develop the skills they need, to participate in mainstream groups in the future. The children’s parents stay and participate in the classes as well.
The children love going to Danceplay on Saturday mornings! Parents also enjoy having a special time with their child and value the opportunity to catch up on a weekly basis with other parents who understand what it’s like to have a child with a disability. The Danceplay classes provide some lovely opportunities for connection between the children and their parents, between the children themselves, and between the children and adults other than their parents.
