'Agricultural specialisterne': rural employment revolution for those with Autism

[Visionary7903]

As far as culture goes, South America is among the most colourful places on Earth in terms of what it offers in that regard. Capoeira is a Brazilian Martial Art that combines elements of dance and music. It is gaining popularity in western countries and is known for its quick and complex moves, using mainly power, speed, and leverage for leg sweeps.

A Capoeira program for special needs kids is currently running in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Note the way that additional things are incorporated that most of the Martial Arts do not have - relating to music for example…

…Capoeira Kids aims to provide physical fitness, music and fun to children with special needs. In the program, your child will learn to move and control their body within their abilities. They will improve strength, balance and coordination through the dance like movements of Capoeira. They will also participate in the music of capoeira, singing songs, and playing drums and other instruments.

The instructor, Trent … is a pediatric physical therapist and capoeirista (capoeira player) with 9 years experience playing the game of capoeira. While travelling in Brazil, he saw several instances of children and adults with special needs playing capoeira and was amazed by how they adapted the game to their own unique abilities.

Capoeira Kids is for children ages 5 and over with special needs, such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, autism, Asperger’s, Developmental Coordination Disorder, Down Syndrome, etc. The goal of Capoeira Kids is to provide
a supportive environment where kids can strengthen their body and spirit, enjoy fitness and a healthy lifestyle, learn music, make friends, and most importantly have fun…

(source: http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=259461497408355)