Self-determination theory suggest that wellbeing is dependent upon the fulfilment of three fundamental psychological needs - autonomy, competence and relatedness. An autonomy supportive interaction style such as rapport-based communication is an essential part of high quality care and assessing the quality of such provision is possible through the use of The Autonomy Support Questionnaire (ASQ).

Perhaps the most important technique for any care giver to master is the ability to develop a good sense of rapport with the child. 

Central to dementia care is principle of person-centredness, and how to support positive relationships and ‘well-being’.

Linda Tickle-Degnen has researched rapport for over 30 years and her work provides a fascinating perspective. The parallels between descriptions of Intensive Interaction and the rapport are striking.

According to self-determination theory (SDT), the fulfilment of three basic needs (autonomy, competence and relatedness) is highly influenced by the social environment. Close relationships and rapport in particular have a deep impact upon whether a person’s needs are satisfied and wellbeing is experienced (Baker et al 2020: 2, Ryan and Deci, 2002: 6).

The purpose of Musical Interaction is to create rapport, an experience that leads to many benefits for both a person with special needs and the person that cares for them.

Instruments are fun and exciting things to introduce to a session and help to create more offers and starting points for interaction. Here are some ideas for using instruments:

In my experience, I have noticed different ways that groups of children with additional needs self-organise in a classroom. So that the children can have choice and control over how they participate, it is important to adapt our facilitation style to the needs of the group.

In anticipation of a new long-term project, I have developed a new form for recording Intensive Interaction and Rapport-Based Communication.

How should we approach the notion of progress? Rather than think about trying to ‘move the person on’ to things that they can’t do yet, my suggestion is to offer opportunities for the person to do more of what they are already capable of.

The principle of Rapport-Based Music is to develop rapport and relationships with the person we are supporting. We achieve this by using the 3C’s to join in with a person’s in the moment interests and behaviour, celebrating the person for who they are.