by Rebecca Thomas

Created on: December 08, 2009

Music is a very powerful tool in communication and expression. Even a baby has the ability to respond to music in their own unique way. Kicking their legs in the air when a song is being playing, or a chuckle while their mom sings them a tune, or even a body shake are different responses to music.  As a child grows older, the responses are different, and the music speaks to each one differently.

While dealing with the special needs population, music plays a very unique role in teaching skills, and reaching other non musical goals. I work with children with various special needs – autism, mental retardation, cerebral palsy and learning disabilities. Their musical intelligence is varied, but some show instant affinity to sounds, and rhythm. Tapping into what musical element attracts them is the key to working with them, and imparting musical knowledge to them.

Here are some ideas that have helped me greatly.

1. Use simple songs – teach them simple songs that are repetitive in nature (words and tune), so that they can be memorized easily. Using actions while singing also aids in memory, and gives them a chance to improve their motor skills too, especially gross motor skills.

 2. Use percussion instruments – having the children and adults accompany the songs using percussion instruments, is a great way to get them involved, and also brings about a sense of accomplishment. For example, shakers, maracas, rhythm sticks, bells, wood blocks and a whole bunch of other instruments are easy to manipulate and don't require any prior musical background.

3. Be creative –  present the musical matter is a fun and creative way. Incorporate movements, and games while teaching each musical concept. For example, if the concept is quarter note rhythm, have each person make a shaker using coke cans, or any bottle. Fill it with beans or rice or sugar, and the result will be a set of differently pitched shakers. Use these shakers to reinforce the rhythms, and to create rhythms.

4. Teaching different instruments – the piano is a good instrument to use with higher functions special needs people. Those who are able to follow more complicated instructions and are able to co-ordinate both hands will be able to learn the piano. The violin is a very good instrument in encouraging ensemble playing. Create your own orchestral score – use different colors for the different strings, so that the students don't have to read the names of notes.

5.Last but not least, spend lots of quality time with them. They need time to build a relationship, and also to really develop trust and love in it. Music may not be the most important thing that they learn at the end of a music course, but it could be a sense of belonging and love and acceptance that they may not get anywhere else. As a teacher you hold the keys to making life much better for them! So make a difference, and they will never ever forget you!

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