Visit the American Music Therapy Association's (AMTA) website. "The mission of the American Music Therapy Association is to advance public awareness of the benefits of music therapy and increase access to quality music therapy services in a rapidly changing world." The AMTA's website provides a wide range of resources for using music to stimulate the minds of mentally disabled students. Find links to other national resources, as well as contact information for local, state and regional chapters of the AMTA.
Browse the St. John of God Joint Library. This library combines resources from several different learning institutions, with a focus on intellectual disabilities. St. John of God has had great success with music programs for the intellectually disabled student. The internationally recognized rock band "Rudely Interrupted" was formed as a part of St. John of God's disabilities music program. Among their many other successes, Rudely Interrupted, which consists of four disabled students, is the only rock band to have played at the United Nations National Headquarters in New York. St. John of God provides a full text, online library with thousands of resources for introducing music to the mentally challenged.
Find specialized equipment for mentally disabled students. Experia has designed a wide range of music and sensory stimulation products to engage the mentally challenged student. The "Soundbeam," "Banana Keyboard" and "Paletto" are user-friendly sound devices designed to allow all students to enjoy the experience of making music.
Soundbeam also offers products for the mentally impaired student. This company produces music therapy products that convert movement into sound. Special needs students using these products may experience music in a new and stimulating way.
Read David R. Wilson's "A Bibliography of Music and Special Education Needs." This reference book includes information about more than 200 resources for using music in a special needs environment. The full text is available online. Printed versions may also be purchased from specialeducationneeds.com.
Find more resources at LivingMySong.com. This website is dedicated to providing accessible music experiences for everyone. You will find information on topics ranging from selecting an instrument for a disabled student to using electronic music in the classroom. There is also information for teachers and caregivers on starting an interactive music program at home or school.