We are willing, able and have the drive to work with any level of ability evidenced in our MUSIC-CAN framework which we designed and deliver. Due to our flexible and versatile nature we are able to plan activities and experiences that can meet the needs of everyone. Clients include those cognitively functioning at a cause and effect level. It also includes those with complex physical disabilities with typical cognitive functioning. When activities are arranged in such a way it is possible for all to become active participants.
The Forget-Me-Not team are passionate about empowerment and tailor each session to the individual. We always assume competence and also have a positive ‘can do’ attitude. We believe in active observation of those responses in order to evaluate and also assess. The subtle and tiniest change in movement or facial expression can actually be a powerful communicative response (see Level 1 Case Study).
MUSIC-CAN Level 1
This session is for individuals at pre-cause and effect or cause and effect level. They will also explore the concept of choice making. There will be no right or wrong option. The focus will be very much on developing very early communications. Running parallel to this will be the opportunity for the AT specialist to assess for the most appropriate method of access to the technology.
Level 2
This session is for individuals who have learnt about more deliberate choice making. It enables them to put their skills into action. It also provides them with an introduction to functional communication. They will use an appropriate device to choose, direct and comment on the activities. There are greater opportunities to work cooperatively, learning greater awareness of others. It is also an opportunity to work on consolidation of early skills such as those in the previous level.
Level 3
This level of session assumes that the individual is competent in the use of their assistive technology. It also assumes they will need AT programmed appropriately to enable them to access specialist or mainstream software. The sky’s the limit! The individual described in the Level 3 Case Study video has been working with the Forget-Me-Not team for 3 years to get to this level. Although a cognitively able young man, when we first began working with him his motivation and self-esteem were low. We have worked through many developmental stages to reach this point. He is now an up and coming songwriter and also filmmaker. His music video was featured at Raw Ffest 2019. He was also interviewed for this by BBC Radio Wales’ morning and evening show ‘Good Morning/Evening Wales’. In addition to this an article on him was featured in Classic fm online.
ALN, SEN & mainstream
We also apply our MUSIC-CAN ethos to our inclusive arts sessions within ALN, SEN and mainstream sessions
