Special! (2006)

The music, songs and games aim to promote social engagement and encourage interaction. They provide a fun and exploratory teaching aid to the fundamentals of communication and social skills. Furthermore, the music creates a calm atmosphere and promotes opportunities for relaxation. The pack contains 2 CD’s together with a userguide which provides words to the songs and suggests various activities and equipment that accompany the song. The first CD generally consists of action based songs, rhymes and stories, and the second CD consists of relaxation music. The pack is designed for children and young adults with ASD, and can be used in a variety of contexts such as circle times in school settings, drama sessions, music lessons, sensory sessions, and in home settings. It is ideal for teachers, carers, and parents .

The songs contain simple and uncomplicated melodies, some with definite beats and repetition that are easy to listen to and memorable. They provide stimulating musical narratives that will encourage active participation of the young person either in a group situation or on a one to one basis.

The relaxation music creates a safe and secure atmosphere with its gentle soothing tones. They can be used in a variety of contexts and incorporated into gentle movement sessions or at the end of sessions of high stimulation and energy.

Some of the activities will need to be accompanied with visual aids, such as the stories, particularly for those with severe learning needs. Some of the materials may also require long periods of attention and focus and contain some complex language and concepts that may be unsuitable for those with severe learning disabilities.

Overall, two pleasant CD’s that form foundations from which practitioners can gain and extend their own ideas focusing on their child’s needs. They are a useful alternative teaching aid, but may need simplifying for those with severe and complex needs.

Kellyanne Thornton