Finding Solutions: Steps of Grace gives children with special needs a place to dance
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - Steps of Grace is celebrating 14 years and has grown from a single ballet class to multiple classes where kids can get dance instruction while also addressing important skills that children with special needs may have difficulty with.
The group is finding solutions in using dance as a form of therapy.
It’s a class that you’re sure to leave with a smile.
For Paige she’s been coming to Steps of Grace for three years.
“When we’re done with class, she just comes out with the biggest smile on her face,” said Mallory Antonacci, Paige’s mom. “Paige is non-verbal so she has very limited communication with us, but her smile lets us know that she adores it, and she squeals and you can see with her body language how much she enjoys it.”
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Classes are taught by Mallory Rosche, who grew up dancing.
She’s also an occupational therapist and says that starting Steps of Grace allowed her to combine the two things she loves.
“It has been so sweet to watch the growth throughout the program,” said Rosche, the director of Steps of Grace. “I have some children who have been with me all 14 years, and to go from seeing them as toddlers up to teenagers has been so special to watch them grow throughout the years.”
She says there are so many therapeutic benefits to dance.
“It improves our balance, our coordination, our impulsivity, our ability to work with others and to follow instructions, but it’s done within this context that’s fun, so children don’t realize they’re getting therapy,” said Rosche. “It’s not technically therapy, but it’s a very therapeutic program for them.”
Paige’s mom says she’s gained more independence.
“I think over the past three years this has helped with her realizing there are other people out there that want to help her and be a part of her life, so that’ been a big thing for us to see,” said Antonacci.
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Right now, students are getting ready for their spring recital.
Rosche says this is the first time Steps of Grace will have their own recital.
“We just want the community to see what our dancers and our children are capable of and to see how talented they are,” said Rosche.
Steps of Grace’s spring recital “Better when I’m Dancing,” is Sunday, May 18, at the Kroc Center.
It starts at 4 p.m. and is free for the public to come and watch. No need to , you can just show up.
This is made possible because of sponsors.
If you would like to sign your child up or sponsor a scholarship for these students, you can visit Steps of Grace’s website or Facebook page.
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