Out of all the movement props I use, scarves make a frequent appearance in my “music therapist bag of tricks.” There are just so many things you can do with them! One intervention I love, in particular, is something I call Partner Scarves. I typically use this intervention with my DD groups as well as Teen Music Club. Here’s how it works:
- Divide group members in pairs. You can do this on the fly or put names in a tambourine and have them draw their partners.
- Give each team a scarf.
- Demonstrate how each team has to work together to move their scarves. I like to make it fun and silly, showing how if one partner pulls the scarf too hard the other partner loses out and “that’s just no fun!”
- Gather ideas from the group for ways to move the scarves (i.e. side to side, up and down, etc.). If the group is higher functioning, I allow the teams to discuss how they are going to move. Otherwise, I model how to move throughout the song.
- Choose an upbeat song and start moving! I typically use a recording so my hands are free to assist those who need it. My favorite of the month is “Come With Me Now” by Kongos.
Working on: teamwork, eye contact, motor skills, focus of attention, following directions.
West Music has 3 different sizes of these colorful scarves, but I like using the 54″ scarves because it gives the teams more room to work with. They can be found here. Have fun!
~Morgan Henderson, MT-BC