Adaptive Dance Done Right: The Power of Individualized Support with Amanda Trisdale - Episode 48

Inclusion and Disability Advocacy from a Parent's Perspective: The Inclusive Dad

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Amanda Trisdale, an autism advocate and co-founder of Autistic Wings Dance Company. Amanda shares her journey of raising her autistic daughter, Leta, who excelled in dance but faced barriers in traditional studios. Frustrated by exclusion, Leta inspired her parents to create an autism-centered dance studio. Amanda discusses the importance of individualized dance education, the need for neurodiverse representation in performing arts, and dismantling misconceptions about autism. She emphasizes meeting children where they are rather than forcing them to conform. Her mission is to foster true inclusion in dance.

Key Takeaways:

Autism in Dance – Traditional dance studios often segregate or exclude autistic dancers, limiting their opportunities to thrive.

Adaptive, Not Lesser – The Autistic Wings Dance Company modifies instruction but maintains high artistic expectations.

Individualized Support – Every student has a dance IEP, considering sensory sensitivities, learning styles, and communication needs.

Changing Perceptions – Many people misunderstand autism, viewing it as a limitation rather than a different way of being.

Inclusion Requires Action – True inclusion means creating spaces where autistic individuals aren’t sidelined but celebrated.

Amanda’s definition of inclusion:

Inclusion is really about meeting the person where they're at and not coming up with what your idea of their disability is.

Amanda’s Bio:

Amanda Trisdale is the mother of teenaged autistic dancer, Leta Rundell. She is the CEO of the nonprofit dance studio Leta founded, Autistic Wings Dance Company. Amanda is also co-host of her daughter's podcast, Leta Tap Styles, where they discuss AWDC, Leta's budding dance career, and throw in a little humor just for fun.

Connect with Amanda:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letatapstyles/

Website: https://www.letatapstyles.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@letatapstyles

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest:

No

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 22

No - 24

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