5 Fast Methods to Construct Rapport with Teenagers

One of many key issues I’ve realized on the subject of working with teenagers in music remedy is that the very first step is constructing rapport.

If we’re asking them to sing,

if we’re asking them to be weak and to share about their lives,

if we’re asking them to do exhausting issues,

then we have to take step one and construct a bought basis of belief.

Since we frequently want to do that within the first jiffy of a session, listed here are 5 fast methods we are able to construct rapport with our teen purchasers:

Be excited by their music –

Hearken to their story about going to an Think about Dragons live performance, or how they’ve watched Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour 5 instances. Actually hear and ask questions on how they bought into the music and what they like about that singer.

Usher in music they like –

This appears apparent, however I can’t inform you what number of instances I’ve noticed music therapists utilizing kids’s songs or songs that aren’t applicable for his or her teen purchasers and college students. Pay attention and take notes (critically!) in regards to the music your purchasers are into. I’ve a operating listing that I add to every time a shopper shares their new favourite singer or tune. I pull from this listing once I’m creating musical experiences.

Allow them to lead –

Though you’re the therapist, position reversal can work wonders on the subject of constructing rapport. Give your purchasers or college students the chance to ask the questions throughout a lyric evaluation or lead the group in tune.

Be weak –

I’ll always remember the time I used to be main a rap writing expertise, and on the finish I stood as much as do my rap. My coronary heart was pounding and I had butterflies! This was an ideal expertise for me as a result of it helped me actually really feel what it’s like once I ask my purchasers to do exhausting issues. If I’m asking them to be weak and share, then I’ve to be prepared to do the identical.

Be goofy and light-hearted –

We are sometimes asking our purchasers and college students to do issues which might be difficult or out of their consolation zones. I believe it’s so vital for us to convey a light-hearted angle and make our experiences enjoyable. Having enjoyable doesn’t imply we aren’t working exhausting to fulfill therapeutic objectives!

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