#308: Autism and Dance: Leta Trisdale Finds Her Voice Through Movement

In this episode, I talk with Amanda Trisdale and her daughter Leta Trisdale about how dance transformed Leta’s life, and led to the creation of something extraordinary.Diagnosed with autism at age three and considered nonvocal, Leta found her voice through dance when traditional therapies fell short. Despite her talent, traditional dance spaces weren’t built for neurodivergent dancers, leading to misunderstanding and exclusion.Together, Amanda and Leta founded Autistic Wings Dance Company, a nonprofit reimagining dance education for autistic dancers through individualized, inclusive instruction.This conversation explores autism, advocacy, creativity, and what becomes possible when we build spaces where neurodivergent people truly belong.Connect with Amanda & Leta: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/letas-tap-styles-and-my-autistic-life/id1751184053 https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org/ https://www.youtube.com/@letatapstyles Still waiting for services? Your child’s progress doesn’t have to wait too. The Parenting on the Spectrum App gives you practical tools to support communication, track growth, and build everyday skills with greater confidence. No waitlist required. Start today: app.parentingonthespectrum.co](http://app.parentingonthespectrum.co/ Worried about your baby or toddler’s communication? Pathways to Early Communication gives parents, caregivers, and professionals practical ways to strengthen the early skills that support communication and development. Simple strategies. Real stories. Guidance you can use in everyday moments. Find the book here: https://books2read.com/How-can-I-help-my-child-communicateWhen everyday moments become constant struggles, it can be hard to know what to try next. The 12-Week Reconnection Program helps you better understand your child’s communication, strengthen connection, reduce power struggles, and create calmer moments at home. Your child isn’t broken. Learn more: [email protected] for calmer moments and stronger connection at home? Start with one next step today. Explore the Parenting on the Spectrum App, the 12-Week Reconnection Program, or Pathways to Early Communication. If this episode helped you, like, follow, download and share Parenting on the Spectrum with another parent who may need this reminder.