During a session the other day, I had a client jokingly ask me if we could play a game. Instead of refuse, we adapted our session plan to create a game incorporating things we had already been working on. I teach adaptive lessons to children with a variety of needs. Often, using music “games” is a far more productive use of our time and a better way to get through to my client.
During this particular session, I had two individuals working on reviewing notes on the staff. We first took flash card size pieces of paper and drew staff lines on them. I then had the kids each draw a treble clef on one of the cards. They then had to correctly draw whatever note I named.
Because we had a matching pair for each of the notes, I thought a game of memory would be PERFECT! I jumbled up the cards and turned them over on the floor.
But this wasn’t any ordinary game of memory, once you found a match, you had to correctly identify the note and then play it. If you didn’t correctly name or play the note, you had to put it back, giving your opponent the opportunity to steal the match!!
This game was not only a lot of fun, but also helped build some of the skills we had already been working on! It was also a great way to work on social interaction, turn taking, being supportive, and following directions!
I have used this intervention a couple times this week, and it has been a hit with all of my clients.
Most of my clients have used the desk bells to identify the notes, though the intervention can be adapted to use any instrument. You can also adapt the intervention or make it more difficult by mixing treble and base clef, adding more octaves, or adding rhythmic values to the notes.
I hope you enjoy this “game” just like my clients have!
I am looking for a way to make a music memory game, where you match a note card with an electronic sound card of that note. Any Ideas ?
Hm…. I’m sure there is an app where you can do something like that, I’m just not sure which one. I’ll give it some thought though. Thanks!