The other day I came across a speech therapy website that listed several wonderful interventions, apps, and word lists the therapist was using within sessions. Her lists and ideas got me thinking about some ways I could apply the same ideas within my music therapy sessions.
I took the idea for The Action Bag, gave it a musical twist, and used it within my sessions to target the following goal areas:
following directions, reading, articulation, eye contact, creativity, expression, gross/fine motor, turn taking, and exploring new vocabulary.
You can also adapt this musical game to meet your clients’ specific need!
Materials needed: Brown paper bag, markers, paper, scissors, 1 durable instrument (I used an egg shaker)
Directions:
- Decorate the bag however you like.
- Print out the list of actions available for free download on The Action Bag webpage or create your own list of actions. (I did a little of both and did not include all of the actions listed on the printable page. Use your best discretion when planning for your particular client)
- Cut apart the actions and place them in the bag
- Play the game with a client!
When I play this game with my clients, I have them select a directive out of the bag, read it aloud, then demonstrate the task with an egg shaker. While they are demonstrating the task, I sing a short song using the words written on the paper and “can you play it like this”. When I stop playing/singing, the client can stop the task and select a new directive. If working with a group, this can be used as a turn taking activity or with the whole group completing the same action.
This is a fun, light-hearted game, that will have everyone smiling and laughing by the end!