Autism Movement Therapy (R) Method: Waking Up the Brain!

A practical guide to the innovative Autism Movement Therapy (R) (AMT) approach - structured movement and music classes designed to stimulate the brain, aid sensory processing and decrease problem behaviours in children with autism spectrum disorders.

Reflecting a growing interest in the body-brain connection, and incorporating the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis, the AMT approach uses music and movement to develop audio, visual, gross motor and spatial awareness skills in children with autism. The book breaks down the components of the typical 45 minute session, from circle games to story dances, and explains how the reader can create their own AMT program.

This exciting new approach will complement other therapeutic techniques for children on the autism spectrum and can be used by a wide range of professionals, such as teachers, arts therapists and dance instructors, as well as parents and carers.

Joanne Lara, MA was a professional dancer before becoming a classroom education specialist and university professor. She is the founder of the nonprofit organization Autism Movement Therapy(R), based in Los Angeles, California, which certifies, trains, and licenses dancers, educators, parents, and professional service providers in AMT. Joanne is a Core Adjunct Professor at National University in LA, California and teaches weekly Autism Movement Therapy classes in Van Nuys, CA, where she has a private ABA behavioral consultation practice. She produced the documentary Generation A: Portraits of Autism and the ARTS, was the executive producer of the LA musical event Temple Grandin & Friends: Autism Works Now and is a columnist for Autism Asperger’s Digest and Sensory World.

Keri Bowers has been an advocate, filmmaker, author and educator for over 25 years. She owns Normal Films, and co-founded The Art of Autism. Her son Taylor, who has autism and is now an adult, inspired Keri to move from entertainment law into autism advocacy. She and Taylor have made several documentaries about autism and present workshops and talks, write articles and appear on television together. Keri is the art director for The Friendship Circle and Miracle Project in Los Angeles, California, and she co-writes a bi-monthly column for Autism Asperger’s Digest Magazine called The Power of the Arts.