The Day a Melodica Opened the Door to Connection

Sometimes connection doesn’t happen in the way you expect.

I was working with a student who was pretty disengaged and dysregulated. He was rigid, resistant to change, and often asked me to stop when I tried to play music with him. We played games with egg shakers, we tried songs and rhythms — but it always felt like I was missing the key to reaching him.

After three or four sessions, I decided to pull out all the stops. I brought out every keyboard instrument I had — the piano, a glockenspiel, floor piano you can step on, an iPad sampler, and even a melodica. My goal wasn’t to get him to “practice” or “perform.” I just wanted him to see that I was there to connect and play, not to demand that he play Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.

Something shifted that day.

He began exploring the instruments on his own — tentatively at first, then with growing curiosity. He smiled. He laughed. For the first time, he looked at me and wanted to make music together. The same kid who had been asking me to stop was now inviting me in.

That was the day our relationship changed.

Moments like these remind me that when we go out of our way for a child — when we meet them where they are and show that we truly want to connect — they can feel it. And sometimes, that’s what makes all the difference.

If you’d like to hear more stories about the power of music therapy and connection, I’ll be on Boise’s 103.1 Tropico FM on December 13th at 10:30 am, talking about how music helps children find their voice, confidence, and joy.

And if you’re curious about how music therapy can support your child’s growth and connection, feel free to email me at landon@soundspectrumtherapy.com or call/text 208-629-1641 to schedule a session or learn more!