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Struggling to connect with students who have speech and language difficulties? You're not alone. In this illuminating episode of the Creative Piano Pedagogy Podcast, Dr. Elizabeth Davis Everhart launches a summer series, "So, I Have This Student..." dedicated to creative, out-of-the-box solutions for students who don't fit traditional teaching approaches.

We dive deep into practical strategies for teaching music to students with speech and language challenges, exploring both sides of lesson communication. The podcast introduces differentiated instruction as a game-changer, and Dr. Everhart shares innovative ways to let students respond without speaking, from using the piano itself to communicate choices to implementing simple hand signals and written responses.

At the heart of these strategies lies a profound respect for student dignity and a commitment to making music lessons about music—not extended conversation. By creating comfortable spaces where students can be themselves, teachers unlock genuine learning potential. Have questions about creative teaching strategies? Reach out through Instagram @creativepianopedagogy or email creativepianopedagogy@gmail.com to be featured in upcoming summer series episodes.

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Summer brings a welcome change of pace for most piano teachers, but those of us teaching neurodivergent students face unique considerations that deserve thoughtful attention. While neurotypical students typically thrive with relaxed summer schedules, our students with disabilities often find comfort in routine and structure - making the summer transition more complex than simply switching to "fun mode."

The podcast explores this delicate balance, acknowledging that the mental preparation for teaching students with special needs remains significant even during summer months. This episode shares creative approaches to summer teaching, including composer studies focusing on movie scores (John Williams is a particular favorite!), activities that build on students' strengths, and techniques for giving students agency through carefully structured choices. We also explore alternative recital formats that accommodate diverse learners, like this year's successful "My Favorite Things" themed event that combined in-person and virtual performances with relaxed outdoor activities.

Have a question about a particular teaching scenario for the new podcast series? Send it to creativepianopedagogy@gmail.com - your query might be featured in an upcoming episode!

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Playing piano is a much more physical activity than most people realize, requiring complex coordination that many of us take for granted. For neurodivergent learners, the physical aspects of piano playing often become unexpected obstacles.
This episode dives deep into adaptive piano technique, exploring how teachers can modify their approaches for students whose bodies and minds process movement differently. The episode outlines six powerful principles for adapting technique for neurodivergent learners. Connect with the Creative Piano Pedagogy Podcast on social media to see upcoming demonstration videos that will visualize these techniques in action!

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The journey of teaching piano technique to students with disabilities presents unique challenges that require creativity, patience, and a willingness to adapt. Traditional approaches—filled with flowery language about rainbows and waterfalls—simply don't connect with neurodivergent students who think concretely and pragmatically.

Teaching piano technique to students with disabilities requires adaptability, patience, and a willingness to break from traditional approaches while maintaining pedagogical integrity. Success comes through adapting our approach, not by lowering expectations! Learn more in this first episode on teaching technique.

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What if the pace of your piano lessons could unlock the true potential of your students, especially those who are neurodivergent? Join us as we dig further into adapting our teaching approach by unveiling the often-overlooked art of lesson pacing. In this episode of the Creative Piano Pedagogy podcast, we draw parallels between the rhythm of a lesson and walking speeds, advocating for a teaching style that resonates with each student's unique learning rhythm. By tailoring the tempo of your lessons, you can help students with ADHD and other learning differences absorb information, build confidence, and feel less overwhelmed, turning their challenges into triumphs!

This episode shines a light on the profound impact of pacing in educational success, encouraging educators to embrace flexibility and adaptability in their teaching practices to honor the diverse needs of every student.

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Unlock the secrets to becoming an adaptive piano teacher in our very first episode of the Creative Piano Pedagogy Podcast, hosted by me, Dr. Elizabeth Davis Everhart. Ever struggled to keep up with the ever-evolving needs of your students? Together, we explore the art of adaptation in teaching—an essential skill that transforms both educators and learners. Join our conversation as we delve into the Oxford Dictionary's definition of adapting and how it beautifully aligns with the dynamic world of piano teaching. Drawing from my own experiences with managing a home office and music storage, and inspired by Kendra Adachi's practical strategies from The Lazy Genius, we'll explore how embracing change isn't just necessary but can be incredibly rewarding.

Find the full transcript, show notes or links mentioned in the episode here!

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