​Here are suggestions for creating an environment conducive to positive results: • Soft blankets and chairs, soft (non-fluorescent) lights, and stuffed animals • Free of talking, loud tvs, lawn maintenance, ringing phones, loud AC unit • Find the safe before the sound- create an encouraging, pleasant atmosphere, don’t force the child to listen but invite, support them in being regulated before listening

Here are suggestions: • You are going to be listening to some music that is going to help your ears and your brain listen better. The music may sound a little funny to you and sometimes it will sound a little quiet. All that we need you to do is listen to the music. ​ • If it sounds too quiet, keep listening and it will get louder. • We do not want you to adjust the volume. While you are listening to the music, try not to talk or sing along. • If you need something or the music is bothering you, let me know and I will help you. • While you are listening to the music, you can do quiet activities like coloring, drawing, puzzles, crocheting, Legos, cards, or kinetic sand. • You may not have your phone, iPad, or computer. • When you finish the music program for today, I want you to tell me if you recognize any of the songs, and which were your favorites. • YOU CAN TURN IT DOWN IF IT FEELS TOO LOUD, BUT AVOID TURNING IT UP BECAUSE THE MIDDLE EAR MUSCLES TO TUNE IN AND LISTEN. SOME PARTS IT DOES WANT YOU

Have your child pick an activity to do while listening. Make it interesting and switch it up! No reading or screens. ​​​​ • Draw • Mindfulness coloring book • Color by numbers, paint by numbers • Jigsaw puzzle • Build with Legos, Magna-Tiles, blocks • Kinetic sand • Play-Doh • Pet/gentle play with a pet • ​​Light chores • Gentle movement • Play with fidgets • Calm card game • Board game • Origami • Art project • Crochet or knit • Solve a Rubik's Cube • ​​Light chores • Gentle movement • Play with fidgets • Calm card game • Board game • Origami • Art project • Crochet or knit • Solve a Rubik's cube

Make sure to make the following essential accommodations: • ​​​Provide over-the-ear headphones that are NOT noise-canceling.​ • ​​No ear buds. If child is adverse to headphones, he/she may listen through a bluetooth speaker. • Volume check to get the volume to the child’s liking​.

Make sure to make the following essential accommodations: • Use positive non-verbal communication. • Notice any changes in demeanor or behavior — discourage excessive movement, dancing or singing to music. • Check-in periodically to make sure child is staying regulated. • Join the child in an activity if they’d like or suggest a new one if they appear bored. • Allow snacks and drinks as these can be regulating and comforting, just no crunchy foods.

Take a Break If: • The child says his/her head or stomach hurts • The child appears anxious or withdrawn (dysregulated) Stop If: The child gets cold, wait until the child is feeling better before resuming listening