This playful and sensory-rich music therapy session celebrates Father’s Day through meaningful musical expression. Clients will engage in instrument play, song creation, and movement that honor the special bond they share with their dad or caregiver.

Instructions:

1. “You Are My Hero” Song Rewrite:
   • Goal: Express feelings and build communication skills
   • How-to:
     • Use a familiar tune such as “You Are My Sunshine”
     • Rewrite the lyrics as a group or 1:1 with fill-in-the-blank phrases
       • You are my _________ (e.g., hero, sunshine, big strong dad)
         My Dad and _________ (e.g., friend, helper, star)
         You make me smile when I am _________ (e.g., scared, sleepy, sad)
         I love you more than my _________ (e.g., teddy, truck, snack bar)
     • You can repeat the chorus or invite the client to add new words each time.
     • Adaptationfor non-speaking participation: Include visuals for choice-making
       • You are my Daddy (point to photo or symbol of Dad)
         So big and strong (show strong arms or flex)
         I love you always (hug gesture or tap heart)
         All day long! (arms wide or drum hit)
2. Father’s Day Rhythm Parade:
   • Goal: Develop motor coordination and joint attention
   • How-to:
     • Have clients choose rhythm instruments OR create and decorate simple shakers or drums (paper plate maracas, oatmeal can drums).
     • Practice a call-and-response rumble with the instruments that they will play after a special cue, like a phrase (eg. My dad rocks!)
     • Lead a rhythm-based parade around the room to an improvised groove on guitar with a consistent, beat driven pattern like 4 bar blues. Include the special cue you have planned for them to stop and play the rumble.
     • Bonus: Invite dads to join the parade if parents/caregivers are present or record a video to share at home if consent is given
3. “Thank You, Dad” Sound Story:
   • Goal: Promote listening and sequencing skills
   • How-to:
     • Create a simple story about a dad doing helpful things (e.g. “Dad makes pancakes”, “Dad helps tie shoes”).
     • Assign each client a sound effect or instrument to play for a specified part of the story.
     • Narrate while children play their assigned sound when cued.
   • Adaptation: Use picture cards to support comprehension and anticipation
4. “Dad & Me” Movement Song:
   • Goal: Encourage gross motor skills and imitation
   • How-to:
     • Sing a custom movement song to the tune of “If You’re Happy and You Know It” with lyrics like:
       • “If you love your dad, give a big hug!”
       • “If you miss your Dad, blow a kiss!”
     • Use visuals or gestures for each verse
       • You can predetermine these gestures or have clients choose them in the moment