CARRM Training - Connection and Regulation through Rhythmic play and Music
Connection
And
Regulation through
Rhythmic play and
Music
In this training, music therapist Sarah Dunston presents a protocol based on Dr Bruce Perry's groundbreaking Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics. It comprises a 3.5 hour training to learn how to implement a trauma informed, First Nations forward, early childhood adapted music therapy protocol to aide in developing self-regulation and relational capacity in young children engaged in early education. No prior musical experience required. In person or online.
At the end of this program, you will walk away with a done for you system and a toolbox of resources and activities you can pick and choose for use in any early years setting straight away.
First Nations Frameworks
This training incorporates First Nations ways of Being, Knowing, and Doing:
- Being: Connection to Country, community and culture through music and rhythm
- Knowing: Understanding the importance of relationships and holistic wellbeing
- Doing: Practical application of culturally responsive practices in early childhood settings
Theoretical Component - The training covers:
- Current research and theory on complex trauma and child brain development
- NMT Principles: An exploration of the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics and its application to music therapy
- First Nations perspectives on healing and connection through music
- Examples from practice in early intervention settings for children impacted by abuse and neglect
Practical Component - Activities include:
- Singing and sequencing activities
- Movement to music
- Instrument play and clapstick play
- Parachute play and body percussion
- Use of sensory instruments and storytelling
- Practical information, activities and resources to embed the protocol in any early learning space straight away
Training Options:
CARRM Training (3.5 hours)
Online or In Person | Up to 30 participants
This comprises a 3.5 hour fun and engaging training for up to thirty educators who will learn how to implement a trauma informed, First Nations forward, early childhood music and rhythm based protocol designed to develop self-regulation and relational capacity. Whilst it has benefits for all children, it is specifically aimed at providing information and strategies for working with children with attachment issues and complex trauma histories. No prior music training required.
Embedded Training (1 week: 15.5 hours total)
3 hours per day on site
In the embedded training, Melodica Music Therapy Director and Registered Music Therapist and Teacher, Sarah Dunston, will walk with you in learning how to embed this training into your practice. Day 1 comprises the CARRM training, followed by four days of embedded practice where Sarah will observe how the activities are being embedded by staff for two hours a day, followed by a talking circle where participants are encouraged to share stories, learnings and challenges experienced during this process and work together to embed the program authentically and to its greatest effect in your centre. Resource Development is included free with Embedded Training.
Family Info Session (2 hours)
Discussion with families on how complex trauma impacts neural development and behaviour of young children + strategies they can use in the home to help support and regulate their loved ones using music.
Resource Development
Review of existing resources + curated purchasing list of additional resources needed.
CARRM Program Packages 2026
| Details | Platinum | Gold | Silver | Bronze |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| *N.B- all package descriptions not inclusive of travel (see below) | $4,000 (up to 10 people) $6,000 (up to 30 people) | $3,800 (up to 10 people) $5,800 (up to 30 people) | $1,200 (up to 10 people) $2,200 (up to 30 people) | $1,000 (up to 10 people) $2,000 (up to 30 people) |
| 3.5 hr training (In person or Online) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Toolbox of resources, activities, handout + playlist | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Embedded Training (1 week) | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Resource Development + curated resource list | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Family Info Session (2 hours) | ✓ |
Travel Costs:
- Brisbane/ S.E Qld: 30min- 2 hrs $80 per hr calculated from Brisbane CBD
- Regional Queensland: $1100