In China, AUNE’s Christina Devereaux introduces dance therapy for children with autism

Christina Devereaux, assistant professor of applied psychology in the Dance Movement/Therapy and Counseling Program at Antioch University NewEngland, led a session at the First International Forum of Innovative Education for Children, heldAugust 8-9 in Beijing, China.

Called “The Moving Relationship: Dance/Movement Therapy with Children,” Deveraux’sworkshop introduced Chinese teachers and parents to dance/movement therapy as a way to helpchildren with autism or other disorders.

In the past, little has been known in China about autism in children. But parents who onceresisted psychological help for their children with autism disorders are becoming more open totherapy. “China is new to such dancing therapy targeting children with various psychologicalissues,” according to China Network Television (CNTV) coverage. “Growing demands forspecial education have made teachers and parents want to try innovative way to teach theirbeloved.”

“Tony Zhou, program director of Inspirees [International Institute for Art Therapy, whichorganized the conference], said, ‘We have new younger generation coming up, from the 80s, 90s,born with new technology and concept. It’s easier, not easy, but easier for them to adapt to new concept and give it a try,'” said CNTV.