My students are from 3-5 years old and have Autism of varying degrees. They attend a public school in NJ, but are only one of 2 specialized classrooms for Autism in the building. The class is small, currently only 4 students. They are the only full day Preschool classroom, but do not receive any specials (i.e. gym, music, or art). As the teacher I am left to provide music, gym, and art for them. We do all kinds of music/movement activities and art projects, but I am no music teacher. I recently introduced rhythm sticks and other instruments to my students and I have seen them SHINE. They love it. For students who could not sit still and follow directions, I have seen them sit for up to 20 minutes, following anything from a single step directions to a 3 step direction, both visually and aurally. I have seen students come out of "their world" and just for even 5 minutes come into mine. There is such interest in listening to music, that I can teach any skill through music.
About my class
My students are from 3-5 years old and have Autism of varying degrees. They attend a public school in NJ, but are only one of 2 specialized classrooms for Autism in the building. The class is small, currently only 4 students. They are the only full day Preschool classroom, but do not receive any specials (i.e. gym, music, or art). As the teacher I am left to provide music, gym, and art for them. We do all kinds of music/movement activities and art projects, but I am no music teacher. I recently introduced rhythm sticks and other instruments to my students and I have seen them SHINE. They love it. For students who could not sit still and follow directions, I have seen them sit for up to 20 minutes, following anything from a single step directions to a 3 step direction, both visually and aurally. I have seen students come out of "their world" and just for even 5 minutes come into mine. There is such interest in listening to music, that I can teach any skill through music.
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