What Do I do?
Finding someone who teaches people with special needs is tricky. It requires patience and understanding, not just a title or credential. I work with your students to aim for your music/non-musical goals through music, harnessing powerful tool-having fun and communication. There are many components to achieve tasks as simple as playing drums on the beat because of their sensory and neurological needs. I am someone who can see small changes in them and change accordingly to support their growth and success.
Typically I start with a 30 min lesson with anyone starting out. I spend 10-15 min on the piano or activity around the piano. The rest of the time is musical exploration through singing, drumming, or using other instruments to whip up activities for your students.
Sensory differences are very important and stimming break is very common. Even with music and fun, it is work!
At Miwa Music Therapy, I believe in the transformative power of music for individuals with special needs. My tailored music lessons are designed to foster creativity, enhance and promote emotional well-being.
Area of skills to explore
01
Communication skills
In order to establish a relationship, we need communication skills. In order to have their needs met, we will build trust with each other and establish communication skills through music
02
Social skills
Let’s do things together- we build social skills by taking turns, initiating activities, and things to relate to each other.
03
Fine motor
It is starting to get more important with using the computer and typing. We work on fine motor skills through playing piano.
04
Executive function
Skills that involve staying safe, motor planning. Following direction with their body, implementing the move that is expected next. Focus and attention, juggle multiple tasks to execute successfully.
05
Hand-eye coordination
We work on this skill through playing piano, look at the music sheet and play. It is a long process from seeing the direction to execute movement.
06
Language skills
Music is an excellent way to work on language skills. Not only singing established songs, finding natural melodic lines for simple sentences makes it easier for students to obtain,