Sounds of xylophones, bells, steel drums, and other instruments rang out from the Children’s Education Center gymnasium, as students visited the many stations at BCCS Music Day on March 13.
“We wanted an opportunity for the kids to explore all the instruments we have,” said Tonia Iadevaia, Music Therapist. “They’re able to experience everything without the restriction of the classroom.”
Tonia and fellow Music Therapist Sari Pelletier worked together to create fun and interactive stations. Students with a sweet tooth built their very own edible xylophones. Others joined drum circles or experimented with tone bells, xylophones, keyboards, and drums, as well as an “Instrument Petting Zoo.”
“Not all our instruments are used in day-to-day music classes, so it was very exciting for the students to have all the instruments at their disposal,” said Denise Gaughan, Director of the Children’s Education Center. “They also really enjoyed the color-coded sheet music that was used to play some familiar songs like ‘Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star’ and ‘The Itsy-Bitsy Spider.’”
Stations also included temporary tattoos, a photo booth, coloring station with headphones and music, and calming station with relaxing music and soft light.
Music Day was celebrated as part of Music in Our Schools Month.
“We’re using music to help the students with all their non-musical goals,” Tonia said. “The music is the motivation to help increase speech, socialization, and it’s fun. Everyone has a favorite song. Everyone has a favorite band.”
Outside of Music Day, Tonia and Sari work together to use music during class sessions to help students regulate and calm their emotions. And during the colder months, when students can’t get out to the playground as much, music is a great backdrop for them to dance, jump, and sing.
“Music therapy is instrumental in enhancing social interaction, assisting with emotional regulation and expression, enhancing motor skills, offering opportunities for sensory integration, and assisting in improving communication,” Denise said.
