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Sources & Influences

The foundations that inform our approach.

 

All Minds Dance Hub is grounded in neurodiversity-affirming, inclusive, and evidence-informed practice.   The resources, guidance, and teaching approaches shared across this site are shaped by a combination of established frameworks, specialist organisations, and lived-experience-led perspectives.

 

This page outlines the key influences that inform our work.

Neurodiversity-Affirming Frameworks

Our approach is rooted in the neurodiversity paradigm, which recognises neurological differences as natural variations of the human brain rather than deficits to be fixed.

 

This perspective:

  • values difference

  • centres dignity and autonomy

  • takes a strengths-based view of learning

  • prioritises access, equity, and wellbeing

 

It informs how we talk about neurodivergence, how we frame challenges, and how we design inclusive dance environments.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

Many of the strategies shared on this site are informed by the principles of the Universal Design for Learning (UDL), developed by CAST (Center for Applied Special Technology).

 

UDL encourages educators to:

  • offer multiple ways of presenting information

  • support different forms of engagement

  • allow varied ways for learners to demonstrate understanding

 

In dance education, this translates into:

  • choice-based teaching

  • multi-sensory learning

  • adaptable pathways without lowering expectations

UK-Based Specialist Organisations

Wherever possible, we draw on guidance from established UK organisations with expertise in neurodivergence and inclusive practice, including:

  • National Autistic Society (UK)
    For understanding autism, sensory processing, communication differences, anxiety, and the importance of predictability and routine.

  • British Dyslexia Association
    For insight into working memory, processing speed, multi-sensory learning, and strengths-based approaches to dyslexia and related differences.

  • ADHD UK
    For understanding attention variability, executive function differences, sensory regulation, emotional regulation, and strengths-based approaches to ADHD across learning environments.

  • Tourettes Action (UK)
    For understanding tics, the impact of stress and sensory overload, and supportive, non-stigmatising classroom approaches.

 

These organisations inform our general understanding rather than providing diagnostic or clinical guidance.

Autistic-Led and Neurodivergent-Led Perspectives

All Minds Dance Hub is shaped by principles emerging from autistic-led and neurodivergent-led advocacy and education, including:

  • respect for autonomy and consent

  • identity-affirming language

  • reducing compliance-based expectations

  • understanding regulation rather than behaviour control

 

These perspectives influence how we approach:

  • communication

  • physical corrections

  • emotional safety

  • choice and flexibility in class

Inclusive Dance & Movement Practice

Our dance-specific guidance is informed by inclusive dance and movement organisations and practices, including:

  • Para Dance UK

  • Autism Dance Movement Therapy

  • Special Olympics dance and arts programmes

 

These approaches reinforce the importance of:

  • access without segregation

  • adapting pathways rather than outcomes

  • dignity-first teaching

Dance Science & Motor Learning

Where relevant, content is informed by research and best practice in:

  • dance science

  • motor learning

  • somatic education

  • embodied learning

 

This supports:

  • progressive skill development

  • reduced cognitive load

  • safer, more effective learning

  • clearer sequencing and repetition

Important Note!

The information shared on this site:

  • is educational, not clinical

  • does not replace specialist assessment or medical advice

  • is intended to support reflective teaching practice

  • should be adapted to individual dancers and contexts

 

Teachers do not need to identify diagnoses to teach inclusively.

A Living, Evolving Resource

All Minds Dance Hub is an evolving project.   As the community grows, we aim to:

  • continue learning from neurodivergent dancers

  • collaborate with specialist organisations

  • refine resources based on lived experience and feedback

 

Our commitment is to listen, reflect, and grow, alongside the dancers and teachers we serve.

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