Behind every child in music therapy, there is an adult who helped them get there. Upstate Music Therapy Center is grateful to all of our parents and guardians who have worked tirelessly to ensure their children are getting the support they need during this time.
Aaron has been receiving music therapy services for ten years now. He has adjusted to new therapists during that time and most recently has worked with Ms. Katie at Newark Education Center. Aaron is an energetic, spunky young man who loves to have a good time. He is full of smiles and laughs. Music therapy is a highly motivating means for Aaron to practice skills to be successful in the academic setting, such as following directions and engaging in conversation with his communication device.
Aaron’s Mom, Laurie, has been a wonderful participant in his music therapy sessions this spring. She is always by his side on teletherapy calls and is one of many parents who has gained a new perspective on what their child’s services in school look like.
For this interview, Aaron’s therapist chatted with Laurie about her experience with music therapy in Aaron’s life, as well as the most recent developments in teletherapy.
- How long has your child received music therapy services? Why did you initially want him to start?
Aaron started receiving music therapy around age 3 [he is now 13]. Music would be calming when he got overstimulated and it helped him become more vocal.
- What are your child’s favorite instruments and songs? Do you use music in the home with your child?
He likes to play his drums at home and he likes songs fun songs. Aaron will often be heard singing in the car.
- Do you have any fun stories about your child and music that you would like to share?
I have enjoyed watching him participate in music. I love how he sings, knows the songs… how he can count the beat and keep the rhythm. I don’t really get to see him in action so I really have enjoyed music with Katie.
- How does music therapy help Aaron to communicate?
Aaron can communicate [in music therapy] and Katie encourages Aaron to use his device to talk. Aaron can answer questions and is able to communicate his wants and needs with it.
- How has music therapy helped during this period of remote learning?
So many people complain about the tele therapies but I really like to see him in the therapy setting. I am totally amazed at what he does. There is a lot more to music therapy than I thought, such as following the beat, being vocal, counting, listening, following directions, and more.
To Laurie, and all the other parents, guardians, and family members out there who have helped their students with teletherapy during this time, we want to thank you for all you have done. Without your help getting on Zoom calls, coping with technical difficulties, and keeping that calendar organized, we would not be able to do our jobs and provide music therapy to your children. Here’s to a summer of rolling with the changes, and continuing to develop these great relationships!