Build a Group home for 200 Indians with Autism

In Ananda a lot of activities are conducted keeping in mind the holistic growth of autistic adults whether it be going out to watch movie or dinner outside or playing a team sport or simple cooking. We always try to include such activities which not only most of the adults enjoy, but also is a learning experience for them. 

From May of 2022, our residents got a marvelous opportunity to be part of the  interactive music sessions conducted by a friend of AFA. As the music teacher was very much familiar with our work, he gave clear instructions, used visuals while conducting music sessions. As a result, residents started enjoying classes and we saw extra excitements in their eyes.

At the beginning of every session the music teacher informed what all musical activities they will be doing and when will the session get over. He also used visuals of musical notes to make it more concrete and that way our young adults had a clear idea of what would going to happen.  The teacher came with a variety of cute looking musical instruments that some of our residents loved playing with. 

We have a mixed group of verbal and nonverbal people and  both groups actively participated in music classes. Those who can sing enjoyed the sessions by singing while others clapped or used a tambourine or maraca to shake them to the rhythm of music. One music session lasted for 1 hour which mostly began with someone singing a song of their choice followed by learning about musical notes (quarter note, half note, full note), some vocal cord exercises, and group performance with musical instruments. 

We have noticed some positive changes among the residents after having music sessions for last four months. Some of the adults who had less sitting tolerance have started sitting for longer period of the time while some of them started enjoying the music without having headphones. 

 All together it was a great interactive experience that our autistic adults enjoyed a lot.