Music Avoidance

Even though most people love music, a very small minority will respond negatively. Sensory sensitivity or overload most likely accounts for this response. While attention needs to be given to special sensory needs, it is important to not allow an individual to attempt to dictate what goes on in the environment at all times. The more tolerance is built, the more there will be an ability to cope with the chaos of real world. Keep in mind music is everywhere!  To overcome aversion to music, give away a little, but not all, control:

1. Prepare an individual for what is about to happen by telling him in simple language or showing him the Tuneville icon.
2. Give him a few minutes to process this information.
3. Allow a student to choose which song she would like to listen to. She can communicate her wishes by pointing or saying the first word or two of a song’s title or lyric.
4. Give a choice between two songs. This is a simple way of eliciting a preference and giving away some, but not very much control.Allow a student the option of earphones or, being covered by a blanket to block out other visual stimulation while he listens.
5. Allow a student to control the volume for a minute or two. 
6. Play only a few seconds of a song and then turn it off. Then, each time the song is played, extend the time of listening. Do not to give the student the job of turning on and off the music. The sign for finished, or the word “stop” can be taught to communicate his or her wishes but the right to turn on and off the music should not be extended.