Reflection Arts Integration- SHANAHAN

For most of my dance teaching career I taught at local studios and schools where it was very performance driven and competitive. It wasn’t until a few years ago (2012), where I felt the passion to combine special needs with dance.

I have always been drawn to working with those with special needs. One of my very first jobs was a camp counselor at YMCA. When my middle son was diagnosed with Autism, that passion grew more.

I love reflecting on the transition of my dance teaching. When I think back to 20 years ago and how strict and hard I was on my students, I feel a little sad. The perfectionist in me was always coming out and I the best dancers! My father was always a bit hard on my sister and I, and I think that came out on my students as a teacher. If that student performed great, then that means I was great. In time, those walls began to fall. I think the world needs hard-core dance teachers, but that wasn’t the calling and passion for my life. A variety of components have changed that outlook, and I love how my passion now is to integrate special needs and dance.

Sometimes I still struggle with the voice of perfectionism, but how wonderful it is to work with children with special needs, as all their movements are perfection within the soul and brain.

Years ago, I only looked at the dancer, the pointed toes, the straight-legged jete’, but now I’m able to see so much more. Dance and movement is so much more then that. For children with special needs it can be a wonderful way to express emotions that are not easily expressed verbally. I love being able to witness how a song can make one student feel sad, and the other happy. Dance affects people differently and dance can be for anyone (not just the technical dancer).

Don’t get me wrong… I LOVE going to professional shows and watching amazing dance companies. I love being able to watch dancers that are HARD core! But, I’m glad my road changed. The experiences with integrating reaching dance with special needs has grown me in so many ways, not just as a dancer. But, as a wife, mom, and friend. I have learned that my identity isn’t found in perfect dances and dancers, but rather life is messy. Art is messy. Dance is messy. My son, who is on the Autism spectrum rarely points his toes, or performs perfectly, but dance changes his brain, and soul. What else could a teacher and Mama ask for!!!???

As I reflect, it makes my heart even more excited to continue in this journey. I’m looking forward to my path and what lies ahead. It makes me thankful for all teaching artist. We ALL have a part. Each one is different. Mine isn’t the strict dance teacher, but someone’s out there is! Together as a team, we can continue to bring the love of arts and dance to our communities, and the world. We all have a part and I’m thankful I have mine!