Sharon Dowie.
Sharon graduated in Music and Education from the University of Ulster, Northern Ireland, training in inclusive education was part of her teacher practicum. After graduating Sharon taught music at a Jr. High/High school.
After moving to Canada Sharon worked as director of a Music School. During her tenure Sharon developed and taught many early childhood music programs. These programs were taught at the Music School as well as at several schools and daycares in the St. Albert, Sturgeon areas. Sharon plays Piano, Classical Guitar, Ukulele, and Harp. She is a versatile educator, performer, and composer.
In 2017 Sharon graduated as a Certified Therapeutic Harp Practitioner, from the International Harp Therapy Program (IHTP). IHTP is an affiliate of the National Standards Board for Therapeutic Musicians.
In 2017, as part of the Early Childhood Consultant Team, Sharon integrated her Harp Therapy program within the early childhood department with Sturgeon Public School Division. Harp Therapy was offered to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder or communication delays, as part of the early intervention PUF program.
Sharon has continued her education in recent years, taking courses in psychology, including Developmental Psychology and Psychology as it relates to Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Sharon has completed training in the following programs:
STAR program – Strategies for teaching based on Autism Research.
SCERTS program - Social Communication, Emotional Regulation and Transactional Support. The SCERTS Model is a research-based educational approach and multidisciplinary framework that directly addresses the core challenges faced by children and persons with ASD and related disabilities, and their families.
