“Spring is in the Air” “Blue Skies” and “Singing in the Rain” were just a few songs that stimulated and energized the Innovative Senior Champions Program, an Adult Day Care Pilot Program in Williamsburg, VA
Our session began with a wellness exercise to and instrumental version of “What a Wonderful World” then we greeted each other with shaking, moving, and tapping rhythm sticks to a lively tune while incorporating each person’s name in the song. We then tapped lively rhythms to “Beauty Songs” including “Swing Low, He’s Got the World, etc.”
Next we discussed the spring beauty outside including trees, flowers and bushes and grass and the spring weather, including the wind and rain. We simulated the wind and rain with a group movement activity of a large white scarf and keeping a foam dice on top.
Then sound shape drums were distributed … the residents tapped several patterns and rhythms on the sound shape drums, emphasizing starting and stopping together … This was a very rewarding experience for the residents to start and stop together. We then sang and tapped to “For the Beauty of the Earth.” Next we highlighted words that describe beauty including: trees, flowers, sun and LOVE and drew pictures of beautiful things on the sound shape drums.
Then tone chimes were distributed for the participants to play “For the Beauty of the Earth” by reading the corresponding letter from the board. This took concentration, focus and visually reading the letter while playing at the proper time. The tone chimes made a beautiful song and sound.
We closed by conducting a wellness and deep breathing before enjoying the rest of the Beautiful Spring day outside. Reflective comments included: “I loved it all, the tone chimes are beautiful, drawing on the drums, sharing our time and love for each other.”
