Session 8: Adult Life, Work, Art and a Voice
Extraordinary Benefits of Theater for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities: A look at three CSP participant modules and how theater has positively impacted short-term and long-term benefits.
Leah Chapa1, Andrew Martinez2
- Center Stage PossAbilities (CSP)
- Baylor College of Medicine, Christus Children's Clinical Director of Autism Program
Contact: centerstagepossabilities@gmail.com
In 2017 we created our theater group, CSP. Cast members have various medical and neurodevelopmental disabilities: Autism, Down syndrome, Anxiety disorder, Behavior, ADHD, Sensory Processing disorder, Encephalopathy, Intellectual Disability, Auditory Processing Disorder, Speech impairment, Developmental Delay. However all have an Intellectual Disability. After 4 major productions, increasing our cast size from 8 and capping out at 24, and through observational input from parents, volunteers, staff and participants, we discovered that theater IS an intervention tool that has contributed to numerous positive effects that mirror those found by Mino-Roy et al. (2021), including impacts on behavior, speech, anxiety, impulse control, stimming, sensory integration disorder, memory, socialization, and spirituality, having long-term benefits. Through a synthesis of research articles and books on the brain, drama, and theater, it is clear that drama affects the brain to a greater degree than one would expect. "As Munger and the University of Liverpool have presented, drama may be the answer to stopping or slowing the progressive nature of cognitive decline shown in malicious brain disease like Alzheimer's Disease" (Hough, et al 2012). With such overwhelming outcomes, why is there not an overabundance of literature, access and implementation? This growing research highlights the positive effects of drama therapy for individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (Mini-Roy et al., 2021). In our presentation, we will share three individual examples and effectively demonstrate how theater is crucial for people with intellectual disabilities, requiring further research in order to maximize short and long-term effects of theater for adults with intellectual disabilities (Mino-Roy1, 2021).
Embracing Inclusivity: National Gallery of Modern Art's Initiatives for Individuals with Down Syndrome
Dr. Shashi Bala
Curator (Head of Education & Research Department)
National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA)
Ministry of Culture, Government of India
New Delhi, India
Background
The National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) has been at the forefront of promoting inclusivity in the arts, with a particular focus on individuals with Down syndrome and autism. Recognizing the importance of providing opportunities for artistic expression and engagement for all, NGMA has initiated various programs catering to the needs of individuals with Down syndrome.
Research Question(s)
This case study explores the effectiveness and impact of NGMA's initiatives aimed at individuals with Down syndrome. Specifically, it investigates the inclusivity of NGMA's programs, the involvement of individuals with down syndrome in various activities such as workshops, and the role of NGMA in providing a platform for their artistic expression.
Method
The research methodology employed for this case study includes qualitative analysis of NGMA's programs and initiatives targeting individuals with down syndrome. Data collection involves program report, interviews with program coordinators and observations of workshops and exhibitions organized by NGMA.
Results
NGMA's inclusive approach to programming for individuals with down syndrome has been instrumental in providing them with opportunities for artistic expression and personal growth. Through workshops, individuals with down syndrome actively participate in various artistic activities, fostering creativity and self-confidence. Notably, a recent workshop conducted by NGMA featured an instructor/artist with down syndrome, highlighting the organization's commitment to inclusivity.
Conclusion
NGMA's initiatives for individuals with down syndrome exemplify its dedication to fostering inclusivity in the arts. By providing a supportive environment and tailored programs, NGMA encourage individuals with down syndrome to participate in artistic endeavors and showcase their talents through workshops and other platforms. This case study underscores the importance of creating inclusive spaces within cultural institutions like NGMA, where individuals with diverse abilities can thrive and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of artistic expression.
Advisory Councils with Adults with Down syndrome
Down Syndrome Ireland
Presenters
Kim O'Kelly is a Service Officer in the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, a department of the Government of Ireland. She is a member of the Down Syndrome Ireland Midlands Advisory Council. Sinéad Flynn, DSI Adult Education Officer, sinead@downsyndrome.ie; Joanne Dawson, DSI Employment Officer, joanne.d@downsyndrome.ie
Description
Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) has a long and proud history of advocating for, and on behalf of people with Down syndrome in Ireland.
DSI has a shorter but equally proud history of providing a platform for adults with Down syndrome to be advocates and to have their voices heard. This has primarily been done through DSI's National Advisory Council (NAC).
Based on the successful NAC model, Regional Advisory Councils (RAC) and Branch Advisory Councils (BAC) are being set up. The aim is for these councils to offer the opportunity for adults with Down syndrome nationwide to have a structured input into the plans and activities of their local Down Syndrome Ireland branch. Members engage in structured self-advocacy and organisational training that enables then to be confident and effective self-advocates. It is planned that RAC and BAC members will be voted onto the NAC.
We will talk about:
- Skills and training underpinning our self-advocacy groups
- Importance of peer training
- Achievements of previous NACs such as poster campaigns, lobbying for UNCRPD, support with easy-read docs, research focus groups, public speaking, etc.
- The work of the current NAC such as involvement in setting up the new RACs and BACs, participation in DSI's strategy and promoting voting
- The impact these councils are having on people with Down syndrome and the wider community
DSI National Employment Programme: achievements to date and employer perspectives.
Presenters: Aoife Gaffney, Nicola Hart
Contact: Aoife@downsyndrome.ie
DSI's National Employment Programme is now in its 6th year and despite a 2-year hiatus during the pandemic, has supported 237 people with DS find meaningful and sustainable paid employment.
We have previously presented to the forum on some aspects of the programme focused on people with Down syndrome, including pre-employment training, skills training and pre-interview support.
The employer aspect of the programme focuses on empowering employers to gain the skills to interview, support and mentor colleagues with Down syndrome and on how to adjust working practices to create a more inclusive environment.
We would like to present some of the employer-focused resources, along with some insights and analysis from a survey of employers about their experiences of working with Down Syndrome Ireland and of employing people with Down syndrome. This research gives some insights into which elements of DSI support are most valued by employers as well as suggestions for the future which may be of interest to other organisations considering employment programmes.
