Music therapy is a technique that employs the use of therapeutic music, singing, and movement to treat physical and mental illnesses. Music therapy is now being implemented in assisting children with autism. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can present a number of challenges for children, including an inability to express feelings, disrupted social skills, and difficulty developing communication skills. Pasadena Music Academy kids piano lessons in Pasadena use the power of music to help these children. This post covers the benefits of music therapy for children with autism.
Capturing And Maintaining Attention
Children with autism have difficulty paying attention. This may be due to various factors, including difficulty processing sensory input (auditory and visual), cognitive processing, or trouble tolerating distraction. Music therapy may be used to help maintain attention and improve learning. As part of the music therapy process, the therapist must serve as a buffer of distraction between the child and their environment. To this end, it is helpful if the music therapist maintains a calm demeanor that is not overly distracting or confrontational.
Supporting The Development Of Basic Communication Skills
Children with autism can often struggle to communicate their thoughts and feelings. They may also find it difficult to understand words and expressions used in typical speech. Music therapy can be particularly beneficial in addressing these issues. In music therapy, the lyrics to songs or musical phrases are repeated over and over until the child can repeat them. This assists children who have a hard time repeating words or phrases correctly. In addition, this repetition promotes positive associations with language, making it easier for children to engage in verbal communication.
Encouraging Adaptive Behaviors
Music therapy promotes a number of adaptive behaviors, including cooperation, self-regulation, social engagement, and playfulness. These behaviors can be beneficial to children with autism, who may struggle with these issues. For example, cooperative songs promote social interaction and engagement with others. In addition, music therapy is a great way to help children relax, which is particularly beneficial for those who have a difficult time controlling their emotions or being calm.
Assisting In Learning Skills Related To Daily Living
Music therapy can provide a fun and engaging environment for practicing skills that are necessary for everyday life. These include things like eating skills and other self-care activities. In addition, music therapy can teach children about tasks like brushing their teeth or taking a bath that they might not already have experience with when they enter treatment.
Providing Social Interaction
Children with autism may struggle to make friends, and music therapy can be an effective tool in helping them make friends and develop their skills at being social. In addition, it can be an excellent way for children with autism to practice the social skills needed to relate with others and interact in a positive, meaningful way. For example, children can learn about sharing toys or helping others with daily activities they might not otherwise have experience with.
Reducing Negative Or Self-Stimulatory Responses
Music therapy can positively impact the behaviors that people with autism might engage in that are harmful, such as self-injury or aggression towards others. Using music therapy, it is possible to redirect these responses into more positive behavior opportunities. For example, a child who tends to get aggressive might be directed to engage in play activity.
Improvement In Motor Skills For Children With Physical Impairments
Children with physical impairments (such as cerebral palsy) may benefit from music therapy through its ability to improve coordination and movement of the body and limbs. For example, in music therapy sessions, children may experience the enjoyment of dancing or playing instruments with their movements being supported by musical accompaniment.
Integrating Multiple Senses Like Sound, Touch, and Sight
Some children with autism may be less sensitive or receptive to the senses of sound, touch, and sight. However, the incorporation of these senses through music therapy may help aid them fully. For example, looking for specific sounds or performing a drill based on touching stimuli may help a child tap into their auditory and tactile abilities, respectively. Additionally, through music, balance, coordination, and strength can improve, which is particularly beneficial for those with physical impairments.
In sum, music therapy is a unique and effective tool for treating children with autism. It can be used to engage them in meaningful activities that positively impact their lives in some ways. Music therapy interventions should be focused on the child and individualized to their strengths and weaknesses. This tool will improve the lives of children with autism while building a sense of belonging and participation in society that will carry them throughout their lives.
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