In this interview, Dr. Erman Turkeli, a violin professor from Turkey, shares his journey from studying violin performance in the U.S. to developing innovative music education methods tailored for early childhood and special education, especially for children with autism and other neurodivergent needs. He discusses his groundbreaking book, *First Steps of a Little Artist*, which teaches young children and those with developmental disabilities to play instruments like the piano and violin without traditional notes, using shapes, colors, and symbols instead.

Erman explains how his method originated from personal teaching experiences with very young children and autistic kids. He emphasizes creating a positive, confidence-building learning environment. His approach is being adopted worldwide, including in academic research and pilot programs, and it has demonstrated remarkable success, such as autistic children playing the piano.

Additionally, Erman talks about his ongoing plans to expand accessibility, including series of these books on different instruments and the possibility of a mobile app. He also shares personal insights about teaching his own young son with his methods, highlighting the independence and confidence his approach fosters. Erman invites interested individuals to connect through his website for more information and to share their experiences. The interview underscores the importance of innovative, individualized teaching strategies in music education for diverse learners.

Erman's website: https://www.ermanturkili.com

Erman explaining First Steps of a Little Artist on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MC7PRun8BOU?si=U2hQI3G-atBL1pw9

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erman_turkili

Try This Tip: I Love to Brush My Teeth

Want your kiddo to brush their teeth without fights, tears, or meltdowns? This week’s Try This Tip is a fun, step-by-step song that makes brushing easy and even enjoyable!

I wrote this song 16 years ago. It's dentist-approved and includes playful, dramatic starts to grab attention. Sing along to all the steps, and watch as your child builds a positive routine with giggles and smiles.

At the end of the episode, you'll hear a version in Spanish! Check it out and see how just a little singing can turn teeth brushing into a joyful activity.

#ParentTips #ParentingHacks #KidsActivities #TeethBrushing #musictherapy #Neurodiversity #AutismSupport #ChildDevelopment #ParentTips #TherapyTools #MindfulParenting #SensoryProcessing #EmotionalRegulation #TransitionsWithMusic #SelfCareForParents #CreativeParenting #MusicInMind #ParentSupport #HealingThroughMusic #TherapistsUnite #EmpowerParents #MusicMagic #cuethemagicpodcast #estherthane #etmusictherapy #globalmusictherapyproject #podcast #adaptedpiano

Esther Thane has specialized since 1996 in neurodivergent individuals & diverse needs. After over a decade on faculty at Capilano University, Esther continues to present, publish, and consult. In 2014, she completed Dr. Diane Austin's (Music Psychotherapy Center, NY) training program in Advanced Vocal Psychotherapy. Esther’s publication in the book: Voicework in Music Therapy, focuses on her innovative method of Vocal-Led Relaxation for Children with Autism. Esther created Meet In The Music© (MITM) music therapy curriculum, which is utilized by music therapists globally. She has received numerous awards including: 1. “Iconic Women Creating a Better World For All Award”, presented by the Women Economic Forum in New Delhi, India (2017), 2. “Peer Recognition Award for innovation and Advocacy”, presented by the Canadian Association For Music Therapy (2021), 3. Luminous Alumni Award of Excellence, presented by Capilano University (2024). Esther is also VP of UnitusTI- Mental Health and Diverse Needs Cloud.

Connect with Esther Thane:

🌐 Website: https://www.etmusictherapy.com

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/etmusictherapy

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etmusictherapy/

▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@etmusictherapy

Rooted in Music Relaxation Recordings: https://www.etmusictherapy.com/rooted-in-music/rooted-in-music

Key Takeaways from My Conversation with Esther Thane, Music Therapist Extraordinaire

Journey into Music Therapy: Esther shares how she followed her intuition into the field, drawn by her lifelong love of music and a transformative experience working in Germany.

About ET Music Therapy: Based in Vancouver, Esther’s practice has been supporting neurodiverse clients of all ages for nearly 30 years, with a focus on creating fun, engaging, and mission-driven sessions.

Team & Community: She built a supportive community of therapists to prevent burnout and foster collaboration, making the field stronger.

Why Music Works for Neurodiverse Kids: Music is a universal, non-threatening language that captivates children, especially those with autism. It promotes motivation, success, and deep engagement.

Using Music at Home: Tools like personalized playlists, exploring instruments, and recording relaxation tracks empower caregivers to support their kids daily.

Transitions & Daily Life: Esther suggests singing preferred songs for smooth transitions and using music as a flexible tool to ease change and overstimulation.

Empathy & Sensory Experience: She highlights how overstimulation affects everyone and emphasizes understanding sensory sensitivities, sharing insights inspired by Glenn Gould’s listening exercises.

Core Philosophy: Children thrive when activities are motivating and successful—music naturally fosters curiosity and deeper learning.

The Joy of the Unknown: Every session is unpredictable and rewarding; her favorite part of being a music therapist.

Collaboration: She emphasizes working with speech therapists, OTs, and other professionals, blending goals into fun, effective activities.

Resources for Families & Practitioners: Check out her website and downloadable relaxation tracks designed for home, school, and self-care.

Final Word: “Meet your child in the music.” It’s all about connection, presence, and the magic that happens when we sing together.