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Harrogate woman launches dance class for children with special needs

Thursday, 25 April 2024 16:20

Three-year-old Aurora Dodds.

A Harrogate woman is set to launch a new dance class for children with special educational needs.

The SEND Dance Academy is starting this Saturday (27th April), created by Harrogate mum Zara Dodds.

Zara decided to create the dance school after her youngest daughter, Aurora, was diagnosed with Smith-Magenis syndrome - a developmental disorder that affects behaviour, emotions and learning processes.

Zara, who is a former professional dancer herself, told Your Harrogate:

“What I noticed is that when I had Aurora, I would take her to dance classes for children and I felt a little bit out of place.

“I wanted to create a class that children and also parents feel really comfortable, safe and happy coming to.

“The SEND dance school is at a slower pace. We use props, it’s fun and it’s all about being yourself and having a fun time through dance.”

The SEND Dance Academy will be held weekly at The Avenue in Harrogate, aimed at SEND children aged 6-16.

There are limited places, so anyone interested is encouraged to contact thesendacademy@gmail.com to book their place.

Zara added:

“I want it to be accessible for everyone. I’ve had a few people ask if they can bring wheelchairs and the answer is absolutely!

"I want everyone to be included and feel like they can join in.”

Zara's three-year-old daughter Aurora is pre-verbal and can sometimes self-harm as a result of her condition.

She had been ill quite frequently and admitted to hospital in need of oxygen prior to her diagnosis.

Zara said:

“I’ve been really lucky that I’ve been put in touch with a support group that is mums of children with Smith-Magenis Syndrome.

“It’s been so hopeful for me because of the rarity. You can get advice, sometimes you can just have a bit of a moan about difficult it can be, but there's always good days as well."

Zara's husband Tim is also running the Great Knaresborough Bed Race in aid of the Smith-Magenis Foundation. Find the Crowdfunding page here.

To hear Zara's story in full, head over to the Your Harrogate Podcast as she joins Pete Egerton in the studio.

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