Using Behavior Analysis and Therapy to Teach Dance to Neurodiverse Children in Day Treatment Education Program

Neurodiverse children in day treatment programs often experience behavioral challenges that limit their opportunities to engage in recreational physical activities. These activities are important for physical health and aid in developing motor and socio-emotional skills. The present study used an explanatory sequential mixed methods design to evaluate the effectiveness of Dance With A B-E-A-T! (Behavior-Analysis-and-Therapy), a community-based program combining dance with applied behavior analysis (e.g., modeling, reinforcement), to teach three dance sequences to five neurodiverse participants (7-9 years) in a day treatment program. Within five sessions, the mean percentage of steps completed correctly increased from a combined average of 31.5% (range = 18.9-52.0%) to 61.4% (range = 53.3-72.0%) for all three dance sequences, two of which were statistically significant (p < .05). The participants described their experience as “fun”, “good”, and “happy”, and program counselors reported high consumer satisfaction, suggesting Dance With A B-E-A-T! benefited both participants and staff.