[Nancy Bair]

Great news Elyse! Way to go!!!

After, I finished listening to the conference call, and I was happy to hear about all the ideas of how to price your classes and approach community places, such as the library. My local library has as great storytime program for 0-2, 2-3 and 4-5 yr old. I haven’t been to it with my twins (that would be a death wish by myself–the bookshelves will be emptied by the end….), but I plan to enlist some help and go with a friend to “check it out.”

I have so many wheels turning in my head after taking this training. Where I will go from here is not clear, but here are the areas I’m thinking…

I have a question about providing sprouting melodies for special needs children, specifically children on the autistic spectrum. Is this a possibility? Obviously, I’d have to adjust my lesson plans and potentially have other limitations like instrument choice, class size, etc. I know there is a HUGE need in my area for this specifically with this population….and I have a lot of contacts and community resources that I have hooked into through my previous MT work. I’d love to discuss the possibility of this program. Not sure who I address this question to….

Also, my father has dementia and currently attends an intergenerational day care. I think this program would be absolutely fabulous there. I need to figure out how to present this to the director. I know you mentioned in your video about your national influence in this area and I’d like to explore this. I am currently providing music for them twice a month, on the days I take my Dad there. I often do two groups, one with the seniors and one with the seniors and kids. Instead of having a parent/child relationship, it would be a child and a “grandma/grandpa.”

Lastly, in two years, my twins will be in preschool (4 years old then-gasp!!) and I would like to have an on-going program of my own by then, possibly in conjunction with their preschool. There are many preschools in the area, one specifically has dance and music “enrichment” programs that is an “add-on” 45 minutes to their regular preschool day. A lot of parents enroll their children in this program as well as the preschool. I think this is a perfect setting for sprouting melodies. I know several preschool outlets that would welcome this program.

[Nancy Bair]

I plan to introduce this information at an upcoming presentation that I am giving about MT and autism. I also plan to set up a website/blog with this information, link to the site and other information as has been outlined in the information. Althougth I need to do a bit more groundwork before I can officially start this program, I would like to get the word out. I also plan to FINALLY finish my linkedin profile, as well as designated FB page.

[Nancy Bair]

I agree with much of the above comments. For me, I think for every child to be successful, they have to feel wanted and accepted. They do not want to be singled out because they don’t feel like playing the maraca or whatever the instrument of choice is. I feel that music is one of the best ways to make children of different backgrounds come together. I would create and prepare prior to classes a “Plan b” and “plan c” and maybe even a “plan d” where I have activities, songs, or specific wordings that I can go to at any given moment to help the parents and children all have a successful experience. Flexibility and confidence in your preparations are the key.

[Nancy Bair]

Elizabeth-
I agree with you completely. As a music therapist, I think we all develop very strong observation and assessment skills quickly and I can see how this can benefit the parents greatly when ‘potential’ issues (with Mom or Baby) are pointed out sooner rather than later.
As far as postpartum depression, specifically in my case, I tried so hard to keep up with things. I told myself that if I could do this one thing (you fill in the blank–could be taking them to sprouting melodies) it would make up for the feelings of complete failure I had as a mother. Then to actually do that one thing and have it not turn out well or maybe the baby has a blowout or screaming fest while I am there, it would absolutely devastate me–especially since I made such an effort to go. I would be embarrassed, I would probably not go back, even risk losing the money I paid to participate in the one thing.
All the other moms would be dressed (not disheveled like I was), hair done, make-up on, and seemed happy. It all was too much to take in. The thing I didn’t realize at the time is that many of those moms are in the same boat and need to have the same positive reinforcement as I did.

If I were to put myself as a parent with my child in a Sprouting melodies class, when I had postpartum, I would say the best approach to me would’ve been similar to what you have said above. “We are all in this together.” “Just being here is important.” “It takes a village to raise your child (believe me, with the twins this is SO true for us!)” I think these reassuring statements go a long way. Also, having the teacher come up to me after and tell me how happy they were to see me (regardless of what kind of day my child or I had in the class) would also be very helpful.

I like having resources available like early intervention as well as PPD support groups, etc. My twins are actually in early intervention and I have found the program to be absolutely wonderful. The social worker checks in with me and really helps me realize how far I have come.

I might have some type of statement like this if I notice someone with similar needs as I have had: “What a great opportunity you are giving yourself and your child. Do NOT underestimate how important you are and how special you are to your little one.” I would probably add onto this, but something similar, and I would say this at the end of the class so those that are late (that would have been me…) can still hear these words.

I feel really strongly that a program like sprouting melodies, provided by music therapists with the training to assess and observe so many development traits and psychological difference, will really be an assest to mothers who have PPD or children who need extra support through their developmental stages.

I feel like I’m going on and on. Hope this makes sense.

[Nancy Bair]

Sprouting Melodies 3: Fun, Energetic, Active, Explore, Play
Family Sprouts: Busy, Bonding Connections, Cooperation, Sharing, FUN!

Create a Plan
1-Gathering: Welcome/Hello song- pick 1-2 songs to sing consistently. I love the “Hey Hey, come and play” song!!! Add a hand wave or some simple motion that the kids can participate in (Family Sprouts: Have siblings wave to each other).
2-Bonding Songs: Create an environment with the song selections to provide the children and their parents the opportunity to “let go” and “reconnect” (Family Sprouts: If possible, have siblings connect or Mom and siblings connect). Use scarve songs to help “connect” kids/parent

3-Songs About Me–A fun song to explore similarities between each of the children and their parents. Same for Family Sprouts

4-Instrument Songs—Provide rhythmic music to give a strong beat pattern and model how to play instruments or use clapping, foot stomping, etc. Watch for over stimulation, bring tempo down if too much or too crazy. I love the sit with me and shake song with the “stop!” to provide them the opportunity to listen to the musical cues and keep them “on-task” and not over-whelmed. Same for Family Sprouts

5-Movement Songs-Fun songs where kids can roam around the room. I love the marching song presented in the video with the drum. Songs where caregivers and children can move together. Family Sprouts: Cater songs to include older kids who can move a lot more and younger kids who don’t move as much. Push and Pull songs.

6-Goodbye-Consistent 1-2 songs. 1st song would be a transition song from higher energy movement songs and 2nd would be a slower paced song where we would wave good bye to each person there, and maybe wave goodbye to the instruments, and the guitar, and whatever else we can think of…. Same for Family Sprouts

[Nancy Bair]

For me, I do plan to eventually provide sprouting melodies in my area, however I need to do a lot more groundwork before I can. There is a successful “Music Together” program that currently runs through our community parks and recreation program. The classes are all “family” classes and I think would be my biggest “competition.”

I also, would like to see how I could take this model and use it with children on the autism spectrum. There is a definite need in my area for this type of program , I just need to brainstorm a bit more, read up on the forums here, and figure out if this is possible.

[Nancy Bair]

I agree with the above comments! Music for skill building lends itself to more performance or educational based programs. Music for development lends itself to move experiencing the joy and creation of music and the “end result” instead of working towards a specific skill/technique/task. A perfect example is of observing a child swaying or rocking to the music as “music for development” in contrast to a child of the same age being prompted to play a music instrument or participate in a specific manner to “increase their knowledge and understanding” of the music at the moment when they are being asked to participate.

[Nancy Bair]

I think the challenges for family sprouts are mostly in the planning and preparing phases. I also think it could be hard to plan ahead for a family sprout session, not knowing how many people or what ages you are going to have. A make-up class is mentioned, which means inconsistency of your attendance. For me, I think that is the biggest challenge.

I like the idea of keeping your supplies hidden until you need them. I also think that if a parent comes to the class with 2 or 3 of their kids, assuming the youngest is a lap child, the ability for the others to have bonding time with that parent is limited and the amount of redirection and staying on task/cues, etc. is where the music therapist have to be on their toes!!

[Nancy Bair]

Caroline-I understand your position, but kids are sooo forgiving and parents will warm up to you so much more when they realize that you aren’t perfect and you don’t expect them or their kids to be. As a parent with children Sprouting Melodies age, I can tell you that I would love to take a class from someone who can just say, “Are there days when you are just tired and you need a little pick me or” or “Here’s something you can do at home when your kids need to move but you need to rest..” I would look at it as a positive and that you can bring something to the table that parents will not only appreciate but be able to completely relate to!!
Kate-I haven’t learned the songs either. I am writing comments down while I’m listening and I know for sure which ones I am going to be learning and also writing down songs I already know that I can plug into those areas as well.
Katie–I think you are right! It is intimidating! To me, the actual class isn’t as intimidating as much as all the other “business” stuff that goes along with it. That FREAKS me out!! Too bad you can’t just make up a song called, “Pay me please…” hahahaha!

At least we are all in good company!

It is very comforting to know about the ongoing support offered too!!

[Nancy Bair]

In the words of my twins that are SM2 age group right now, “WOW!” “OOHHH” “MORE”

I would say energetic, rhythmic, exploration, discovery, and careful listening

Discover the joy and energy of music through sprouting melodies 2! In this class, we will move, move move and explore together! It’s OK if your child wants to move on the other side of the room too and get to know their peers or the other grown-ups in the room. We are going to practice “careful listening” where will be listen for surprises in the music that tell us what is coming next. It could be that the music will stop for a moment, or the music is getting faster or slower, or we are going to change our movements. We are all going to be pros at listening and being able to use music as a cue with our kids here and at home. After each group, all the instruments are cleaned and sanitized.

Create a Plan
1-Gathering: Welcome/Hello song- pick 1-2 songs to sing consistently. I love the “Hey Hey, come and play” song!!! Add a hand wave or some simple motion that the kids can participate in.
2-Bonding Songs: Create an environment with the song selections to provide the children and their parents the opportunity to “let go” and “reconnect”

3-Songs About Me–A fun song to explore similarities between each of the children and their parents.

4-Instrument Songs—Provide rhythmic music to give a strong beat pattern and model how to play instruments or use clapping, foot stomping, etc. Watch for over stimulation, bring tempo down if too much or too crazy. I love the sit with me and shake song with the “stop!” to provide them the opportunity to listen to the musical cues and keep them “on-task” and not over-whelmed

5-Movement Songs-Fun songs where kids can roam around the room. I love the marching song presentated in the video with the drum. Songs where caregivers and children can move together

6-Goodbye-Consistent 1-2 songs. 1st song would be a transition song from higher energy movement songs and 2nd would be a slower paced song where we would wave good bye to each person there, and maybe wave goodbye to the instruments, and the guitar, and whatever else we can think of….

[Nancy Bair]

Great ideas! As far as how much stimulation, I think a lot of it can depend on the day, the kids, etc. I think it is important to always be watching for signs of over-stimulation. However, in my experience, observing is only half the solution. You have to know what to do and have a plan b, or plan c, or plan d, in place and pre-determined BEFORE the group gets out of your control. With this age group, one kid can really be overstimulated but another kid would be just fine. It’s really about balance and knowing how to tip the scales one way or another depending on what is happening.

When I used to work with many seniors within the dementia population, I became very aware of signs of agitation and was able to steer clear of those things the next time around. I think SM would be very similar in that regard.

[Nancy Bair]

I have several ocean drums, two big djembe drums, and TONS of maracas! I also have several tambourines, rhythm sticks, scarves, thunder drums, and several sets of boomwackers. I can tell that I’m going to need to invest in some more user friendly and easier cleaning instruments!! Looking forward to that “kit” or list you mentioned in the video!!

[Nancy Bair]

Supportive, Bonding, Peaceful, Compassionate, Reassuring
Welcome! You may not think you are the best singer in the world, but to you little one, you are their most FAVORITE singer! In Sprouting melodies, we are going to reconnect with the calming, bonding atmosphere by using our voices, which are so comforting to our little ones. We also are going to encourage rocking and swaying movements to recreate the supportive environment our little ones associate with their experience in the womb. This is a time to take a deep breath, and let your little one set the pace! Feel free to stand up and rock, sit down, or put your baby on a blanket. We will repeat the songs several times to help you learn it and to reassure your little one.

1-Hello/welcome: Prior to singing, strumming lightly on the guitar to introduce the sound. Then singing hello to everyone.
2-Bonding/Laptime: Soothing, quiet song that allows for time to cuddle, swaddle, rock, etc.
3-Songs About me: A song about body parts (eyes, ears, mouth, and nose) where the parent can visually cue their child (if older) or point to their child’s body parts to show them that they both have the same!
3-Instrument play: A “shake” song where the tempo can vary according to the needs of the participants.
4-Movement Songs: potentially using a scarf for the babies to watch. Something like “My Bonnie” and moving the scarve in a slow arched shape. Using a more active tempo song or marching song and having parents “march” with their babies.
5-Cool Down-slowing bringing down the tempo from the previous song(s). Sing goodbye to them and play recorded music very softly to help ease with the transition.

[Nancy Bair]

oops! I forgot, I do have one more question…You mentioned about helping recognize potential delays in the babies and/or postpartum depression in the Moms. Have you ever had this type of conversation with the parent? How did it got and how did you approach them about it?

I am wondering because after I had my second and again (much worse) with my twins, I sunk into postpartum and I put a strong face for EVERYONE. Sometimes you are soo tired that one more person suggesting that something is wrong with you is just too much. It’s a fine line. Speaking from personal experience, it is hard to have someone tell you that something is wrong with you, or with your child. You get that “ooohhhh” that is so awkward when they ask, “are they doing ___ yet?” and you answer “no.”

I’m thinking perhaps maybe to have (I know there are several resources through early intervention, etc.) some printed literature available for parents to take if they feel they need with resources on them to contact?

[Nancy Bair]

I agree with everyone that music therapy can be a real assest in a community based setting. Allowing the community to understand the have access to a music therapy program would be absolutely amazing. I lean a little more towards Kate’s answer. I think it is important (at least in my area where I live-Portland/Seattle area) that a distinction needs to be made between “music therapy” and “music wellness.” Music therapy isn’t as well known here as it is in other parts of the country and some of us are still fighting to gain recognition in the field for our clinical work. I have had people refer to situations or experiences as “music therapy” when, in my opinion, it has been more in the “music wellness” range.

If the goals and objective of a community based music therapy program were able to be SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound), I think it could be a smashing success! In my experience, when you can show why you do what you do, musically, to meet a goal–and how it is changed if it didn’t work or what you did to make the goal attainable, it is very well received and it “clicks” for people. I think you can easily incorporate this into our session of sprouting melodies.

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