Ten Top Tips for Empowering Young People Through the Power of Music
By Stacey Green – Freedom Foundation
- Use inspirational music to create a sense of calmness that makes children feel safe and secure – Young people are more likely to interact and participate in sessions if they don’t feel judged.
- Find music that motivates the mind to improve their mindset- Music has the power to empower and will help children to reflect on their emotions, feeling safe to express them.
- Give examples of various artists who have embraced different sounds to create new music- Many children only listen to current music and aren’t aware of alternative choices that they may be able to connect with emotionally.
- Always ensure that the children understand that music is a personal choice and down to individual interpretation- Exploring different genres of music gives young people the opportunity to broaden their musical tastes and spark creativity.
- Choose choreography that embraces the freedom of movement – this enables children to channel their energies through physical activity.
- Try changing light settings to create a different ambiance for your sessions- Many children feel less exposed when the lighting is lowered or coloured.
- Always encourage young people to explore their own choreography and find ways to express their feelings through creativity- Some children find it easier to share ideas through movement rather than vocalise their concerns or worries.
- Try to avoid taking over- Hold back, and watch those children go! Expression through movement is best when it’s free flowing.
- ‘If in doubt, dance it out’- children are used to stomping their feet from an early age to release frustrations. Why not continue that and stomp it out to the beat!
- Never underestimate how much music and dance can improve a child’s mental health- Releasing tensions and expressing creativity can unlock deep emotions that need to be shared.