Lesson Adaptations
Changing the pathway, not the destination.
​
Lesson adaptations are simple, thoughtful adjustments to how dance is taught, not what is taught. They allow dancers with different learning styles, sensory needs, and processing differences to access the same technique, artistry, and outcomes as their peers.
​
Adaptations are not about lowering expectations, simplifying choreography, or separating dancers. They are about offering multiple ways into the same movement, so that every dancer has the opportunity to succeed.
On This Page...
Why Lesson Adaptations Matter in Dance
How the cognitive, sensory, and emotional demands of dance training can create barriers, and how thoughtful adaptations remove them.
​
Adaptations Benefit Every Dancer
Why inclusive teaching improves clarity, confidence, and learning for the entire class, not just neurodivergent dancers.
​
Key Principles of Effective Lesson Adaptations
Four guiding principles that support dignity, autonomy, and equal access while maintaining technical standards.
​
What Lesson Adaptations Are Not
Clarifying common misconceptions and reinforcing that adaptations exist alongside challenge, effort, and artistic growth.
​
How to Use This Section
An overview of how the following dance-style adaptations can support teaching, planning, and inclusive lesson design.
Conditions shape the environment
The environment nurtures growth
Growth unfolds into blossom
Why Lesson Adaptations Matter in Dance
Dance classes place high demands on:
-
Memory
-
Coordination
-
Sensory processing
-
Language comprehension
-
Emotional regulation
-
Timing and sequencing
For neurodivergent dancers, these demands can collide, not because of a lack of ability, but because the teaching pathway doesn’t match how their brain and body best learn.
Lesson adaptations remove unnecessary barriers so dancers can focus on movement, expression, and growth, rather than coping with overwhelm or confusion.
Adaptations Benefit Every Dancer
Although designed with neurodivergent dancers in mind, adaptations improve learning for everyone in the room. Clearer structure, visual cues, choice-based options, and predictable progressions help:
-
Anxious dancers
-
Beginners
-
Tired dancers
-
Younger students
-
Dancers returning from injury
-
Dancers learning new styles
Inclusive teaching is simply good teaching.
​Key Principles of Effective Lesson Adaptations
1. Offer Options, Not Labels
Adaptations work best when they are offered to the whole class as choices. Teachers do not need to know diagnoses or single anyone out. A dancer choosing a different option is exercising autonomy, not standing apart.
2. Keep Goals the Same, Vary the Route
The technical aim stays the same. The way dancers get there may differ:
-
Tempo
-
Repetition
-
Visual support
-
Physical preparation
-
Sensory input
Different routes, same destination.
3. Adapt Privately, Not Publicly
Subtle adjustments protect dignity and confidence. A quiet cue, alternative starting point, or choice of position can make a significant difference without drawing attention.
4. Build Adaptations Into Your Teaching Style
When adaptations are part of how you teach, rather than something added on, they become natural, seamless, and non-stigmatising.
What Lesson Adaptations Are Not
Lesson adaptations are not:
-
Lowering standards
-
Avoiding technique
-
Excusing effort
-
Removing challenge
-
Making dance “easier”
They are about access, equity, and growth.
How to Use This Section
The adaptations that follow are organised by dance style. Each section explores:
-
Common learning challenges
-
Why they occur
-
Practical adaptations you can use immediately
-
Strengths these adaptations unlock
You can use these ideas:
-
As part of whole-class teaching
-
For individual support
-
To redesign exercises
-
To build more inclusive lesson plans
There is no “perfect” approach, adaptation is a process of listening, observing, and adjusting.