Musical instruments: with non verbal children

Use musical instruments to practise choosing and asking for more

Activity
Songs and Music
Target
  • Client group → Children
  • Social communication → Initiation
  • Social communication → Eye contact
  • Cognitive communication → Attention
Abstract
Show the child two instruments, ask if they would like the bells or the drum. Accept non verbal responses. Sing a particular song as they play, then stop and ask if they want more playing.
portrait Contributor Rhiannan Walton

method

Directions

This activity works well as a one to one activity, or in a small group.

If possible choose musical instruments that the children like / are motivated by.

Hold one instrument in each hand; ask the child if they would like the bells or the drum. They may choose by reaching or eye pointing. Give them they instrument they choose, and sing as they play it.

I like the song:

Ruth is playing the drum,
Ruth is playing the drum,
Ruth is playing, Ruth is playing, Ruth is playing on the drum!

Then say playing is finished (use the sign) and take the instrument back. Ask the child if they would like more (use the sign) playing. Encourage the child to respond by nodding, or signing me / more.

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