Keep Singing, Keep Playing, Keep Reading
- Kayla Shafer, MA, MT-BC
- 20 minutes ago
- 1 min read
Books are a common tool music therapists use in sessions to bring a story to song, or a song to life in a different way. For music therapists working with children or vulnerable people facing the stress and fear of separation, deportation, or detention, check out this book list compiled in collaboration by the MN Department of Health and UMN Extension. The document also has helpful tips for using these books sensitively. Below are a few considerations for music therapists.
Always pre-read any book you are curious about using to assess for developmental appropriateness, illustrations, and other content that may be activating
Music therapy interventions need not always be just singing the book--there are plenty of musical ways to participate or react.
Read the book with your client and invite them to play/sing a musical response to address emotional expression.Â
After reading through the book, assign different musical instruments or sounds to the characters to enhance emotional identification.
Use other tools like scarves or a parachute to facilitate a gross motor response to the story.
Gain consent from a caregiver or guardian when necessary, as some themes may be particularly sensitive.Â
As always, music therapists have an ethical responsibility to adapt our interventions to the needs of our clients, in whatever time, place, and situation we are in. Right now is a heavy time, yet there is so much power in the supportive presence of another caring person. Keep singing, keep playing, and keep reading. It is helping.Â
References:
