A few final thoughts...

Props that could offer strong sensory inputs were found to instantly provide a focal point for families to move together and subsequently find enjoyment and benefit from the experience.   The affordances could be perceived in different ways and could enhance creativity.

 

At times concessions and adaptations would need to be made to ensure accessibility to all, no matter their abilities. The style of facilitation and understanding of sensory impacts can support all through the session. It was working together in your family groups that you appeared to feel connected and had positive experiences. 

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I think there was a lot of value in including you all in the research project. You were all so interested and I think important for children to learn what research is and ask questions about what we do.

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Understanding the use of these sensory props as affordances gives a different perspective on the function and how they are used.  Their role in the dance session, especially with groups can be the spark for creativity and enhance the magic of the dance experiences.  Also, it could be a way of thinking differently about our dancing. It is not just our bodies that are moving, but rather our bodies in relation to  the props/affordances. 

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Developing bonds between adults in this setting with no distractions and as equals were important in that it allowed all a space to feel safe trying new things. The props allowed for more than just experiencing dance but also a vehicle for problem-solving and developing new ideas. Hopefully this can encourage you all to be creative in solving problems  with other every day affordances.

 

Overall, the project provided clear and positive evidence that all of you benefitted from dancing together, and that this can be enhanced using props as an affordances.  The extent of this impact is hard to quantify, but from this study, it seems that it has the potential to be significantly positive.