Movimento em foco: a dança como ferramenta terapêutica no desenvolvimento de crianças autistas

Abstract

This study investigates dance as a complementary tool in the therapeutic treatment of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), based on the understanding of movement as a fundamental element for cognitive, motor, sensory, and socioemotional development. The research emerges from my personal experience as a family member of an autistic child, combined with my background in dance, motivating a reflection on the potential contributions of the arts to therapeutic contexts. To support this discussion, the study establishes a dialogue with three approaches that use movement as a central axis of intervention: the Movement Method, Equine-Assisted Therapy, and the Feldenkrais Method. The adopted methodology is based on qualitative content analysis, developed through a literature review and conversations with professionals from the investigated fields, aiming to understand how such practices may contribute to the development of autistic children. Throughout the research, the relationship between body, brain, and learning is discussed, considering aspects such as body awareness, emotional regulation, and social interaction. The study concludes that dance, when integrated with existing therapeutic methods, can enhance developmental processes and quality of life, configuring itself as an important complementary resource in the support of autistic children.