Jackson Finken works on a piece of music with his Beethoven's Buddies teacher Beth Bauer at his side. The program, operated by the Community School of the Arts at Wheaton College, teaches music to children with disabilities.

Paul Michna

Jackson Finken's hands work the keyboard during a lesson with Beethoven's Buddies at Wheaton College.

Paul Michna

One key to Beth Bauer's success in teaching students with communication difficulties is setting up the lesson room with items such as colorful signs detailing the rules, a mini-trampoline for physical play and fidget toys on the shelf.

Paul Michna

Jackson Finken and his mother, Deb Finken, work on music flash cards with piano teacher Beth Bauer during the Beethoven's Buddies program at Wheaton College.

Paul Michna