Music and the Autistic Child
It has been noted time and again that children on the autism spectrum
display unusual sensitivities to music. Some have perfect pitch, while many
have been noted to play instruments with exceptional skill. This unique
responsiveness to music can be adaptable to non-musical goals:
Speech:
Music can be particularly effective in the
development and remediation of
speech. Since autistic children sometimes sing when they may not speak,
music can be used as a tool to work systematically on speech through vocal
music activities. Autistic children have also made enormous strides in
eliminating their
monotonic speech by singing songs composed to match the rhythm, stress, flow
and inflection of the sentence. Music is considered a “universal language,” which allows autistic children
to communicate, participate and express themselves non-verbally. The
interpersonal timing and reciprocity in shared play, turn-taking, listening
and responding to another person are augmented with music.Social Skills:
Music is particularly useful with autistic children owing in part to the
non-threatening nature of the medium, which provides bridges between people
and/or between individuals and their environment. This facilitates
relationships, learning, self-expression, and communication. Music captures and maintains attention. It is
highly motivating and
engaging and may be used as a natural “reinforcer” for desired responses.
Music can motivate autistic children to
reduce negative and/or self-
stimulatory responses and increase participation in more appropriate and
socially acceptable ways.
Self Esteem:
Many children on the autism spectrum have
innate musical talents. Music
provides an opportunity for successful experiences, thereby increasing the
self esteem of the child. Musical elements and structures provide a
sense of security and
familiarity. This encourages the child on the autism spectrum to attempt
new tasks within this predictable but malleable framework. Multi-Sensory Stimulation:
The rhythmic component
of music is very organizing for the sensory systems
of children on the autism spectrum. As a result, auditory processing and
other sensory-motor, perceptual-motor, gross and fine motor skills can be
enhanced through the use of music.
Click the photo for a gallery of pictures
of Lisa's work with Music & Sound Therapy
The main goals of the session are:
Increase emotional expression, speech and
socialization skills
Provide SENSORY STIMULATION
Offer CHOICE and CONTROL
Outlet for SELF-EXPRESSION
Method for increasing COGNITIVE AWARENESS
Vehicle for SOCIAL SUPPORT
Increase SELF-ESTEEM
Be a Stimulus for COMFORT and RELAXATION (and ENJOYMENT)
These interventions can be designed to meet the child's interests, needs and behavior goals. Some of the activities can include:
Music improvisation (singing and instrumental)
Receptive music listening
Song writing and lyric discussion
Music performance
Learning through music
Stress management and relaxation through breathing and toning exercises