Music Group

Did you know that music provides many benefits, especially to those with special needs? 

Music can decrease stress and anxiety while increasing communication, focus/attention, confidence, and so much more! Each week, we plan different musical activities to achieve these benefits.

Last week’s music class began with a warm-up using scarves. The scarves are a great way to grab everyone's attention and get them moving to the beat! And who doesn’t love a good prop? We focus on head-to-toe as well as crossing the midline moves to assist relaxation, prepare for a higher energy class, and increase self-regulation via integrating both sides of the brain and body. 

Following, we invented a chant focusing on rhythm and phonics called "Pizza Guy" using rhythmic instruments (maracas, egg shakers, etc) and corresponding moves. Each person led the group by choosing a pizza topping to add to the pizza during the song. Having everyone sing together and picking a topping can build confidence and communication!

Next, the group used pompoms in a simplified dance routine focusing on crossing the midline and large gross motor movements. Participants so enjoyed this they stood up and sang along. We chose to use the song "Firework" by Katy Perry since the pompoms moving around resembled fireworks in the sky. 

Afterwards, each person led the group on a scale on the piano altering the do-re-mi for the notes teaching basic music reading as well as leadership skills. Each participant was able to pick an instrument and play the different keys by walking, rolling, or jumping across! 

To finish the class, we used the parachute to cool down. Something like the parachute isn’t just pretty to look at, it requires teamwork and provides for proprioceptive input to assist with self-regulation. Everyone grabbed the parachute and moved it up, down, and side to side to a song and followed 

This group is a perfect example of how music can be used therapeutically to engage socially, physically and allow everyone to participate!