Submitted by Kerrie Hodges, Bedford, Virginia
Idea posted July 16, 2002
There are several students in my school who do not celebrate any traditional holidays because of their family's religious beliefs. I have found my classroom computer and electronic keyboard are invaluable for providing students with alternate activities in my classroom when we are singing holiday songs and a student does not wish to participate.
I purchased several music computer games last year and installed them on my computer, and the non-participating student(s) can use the headphones so that we don't disturb him/her, and the computer doesn't disturb the class as s/he learns more about music theory or creates a song of his/her own using the software or keyboard. I check on him/her from time to time to help troubleshoot with the computer, as necessary. The students are very appreciative that they can have a fun activity to do without being disturbed by our discussion and singing of holiday music.
Another idea on days when you cannot be available to assist the student in using the computer is to allow the child to do an Internet "scavenger hunt" and see how many facts s/he can find about an instrument or composer on the Internet.