Voices and Vibes as Tools for Connection in Adult Autism

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee Webinar Series

Topical Questions

• How do play and music support emotional regulation and learning in neurodivergent adults, according to the neurodiversity paradigm?
• What playful and musical strategies can foster social connection, communication, and self-expression among neurodivergent adults?
• How can facilitators adapt activities (games/songs) to stimulate different areas of adult development—such as cognitive flexibility, self-awareness, emotional literacy, and interpersonal skills—in inclusive learning environments?

Specific Objectives

• Recognize the value of play and music as tools for supporting the cognitive, emotional, and social development of neurodivergent adults.
• Explore inclusive and neurodiversity-affirming strategies that incorporate music and play into adult learning or therapeutic environments.
• Design and facilitate adapted games and musical experiences that promote communication, self-regulation, creativity, and group cohesion.
• Use visual, auditory, and movement-based supports to create an accessible environment where all adult participants can engage meaningfully.
• Participate in experiential activities to develop empathy, self-awareness, and practical skills for applying these strategies in real-life adult contexts (e.g., classrooms, therapy groups, community centers, or support groups).

Key points to be addressed include:

• enhanced engagement and participation,
• improved academic outcomes,
• fostering a supportive learning environment, and
• preparation for a diverse world.

Webinar Type: Teaching Best Practices

Categories: Blended Teaching/Learning, Classroom Management, Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion, Lesson Planning/Ideas

Teaching Sectors: Continuing Education/Adult ESL (non-credit), Elementary, Secondary, TESL trainers

Participant Level: All levels

About the Presenter

Viviana (she/her) is a passionate educator with nearly three decades of experience in teaching English. She holds a master’s degree in bilingual education and a specialization in diversity and inclusion in education. She is an autism analyst and a university expert in attention to neurodivergent students. Her inclusive approach and dedication to neurodiversity have led her to key roles in coordinating and managing educational programs adapted to neurodiversity for international English exams between 2019 and 2023. Currently, she creates special education programs for various universities, and she trains teachers and educational psychologists in the field. She has participated in international conferences in Paraguay, Uruguay, the Dominican Republic, Argentina, and India.

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/viviana-inés-canulli-1140a8249

Instagram: @adaptandotumundo

* Members must be a member of the TESL Ontario group on Tutela.

Please note: TESL Canada and TESL Ontario are separate entities. Your TESL Canada membership does not include free access to TESL Ontario webinars. To learn more about TESL Ontario Standard Membership, please click HERE.