MIM, Musical Instruments Museum

The MIM pays particular attention to children and youngsters with mental, physical or social disabilities. Whatever the specificity of the group, the guide will do everything possible to ensure that everyone feels welcomed and respected in their differences. The musical instrument is at the centre of an enriching moment of exchange and encounter for all. Manipulations, “musical bath”, musical games, listening, observation and dialogue are on the menu, according to the possibilities of the participants. A preliminary contact with the group leader is planned in order to adjust the course as well as possible.

Inclusion and equity

The programme promotes inclusion by ensuring that young people with special needs can participate fully in cultural activities. This supports the idea of equity, giving all children, regardless of ability, the opportunity to benefit from the educational and emotional richness that music offers.

Personal development and education

For participants, interacting with music and instruments can stimulate cognitive development, improve motor coordination, and encourage emotional and social expression. These interactions help to develop skills that go beyond music and contribute to a better quality of life.

Pre-visit communication

The practice of contacting the group leader before the visit to plan and adjust activities is a strategy that can easily be adopted in other institutions to personalise the experience.

Youngsters with mental, physical or social disabilities

Objects manipulations, “musical baths”, musical games, listening, observation and dialogue

• Belspo
• “Régie des bâtiments”
• National Lotery
• National bank
• Brussels-capital region
• King Bauduin Foundation
• Fund Baillet-Latour
• Total Energies
• Friends of the royal museums of art and history

Adjusting activities to the specific needs of participants is a practice that can be implemented anywhere. This user-centred approach ensures that the programme is relevant and accessible to everyone, whatever their abilities.

Activities that involve manipulating instruments, listening, and observing encourage a multi-sensory learning experience. This method can be particularly effective for young people with special needs, engaging multiple modes of learning.

By adapting its programmes to meet the needs of young people in special education, the MIM gives these students access to enriching cultural experiences that may previously have been less accessible to them. This promotes equal opportunities in terms of access to culture.

The museum uses multi-sensory approaches such as instrument manipulations, musical baths, and musical games, which are particularly beneficial for young people with special educational needs. These methods stimulate different learning channels, encouraging better retention of information and deeper interaction with the content.

Group music activities encourage social interaction and help develop participants’ communication and emotional skills. For young people in special education, these skills are crucial and can be enhanced in an engaging and supportive environment.