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There are many ways in which Music Therapy benefits children with Autism. This video illustrates that music therapy can help with:
Improved Communication including:
Speech
Articulation
Sign Language
Use of Electronic Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) devices such as a Yes/No app on an iPad or something more complex like a Dynavox system
Social Skill Development such as greetings, turn-taking, joint attention and eye contact.
Self-Expression - This can be particularly powerful with a child who is non-verbal. Music Speaks Where Words Fail!
Behavioral Skills – Creating songs and musical stories about appropriate behavior.
Social-Emotional Skills– Singing songs that teach a child how to identify feelings and how to cope with “big” emotions.
Other ways that Music Therapy benefits children with Autism include:
Motor Skill Development - These can be gross motor movements such as jumping or fine motor movements such as a two or three finger pinch (pincer grasp)
Academic Goals - Putting academic information into a song format so that recall is improved.
Sensory Regulation - Calming music, the use of rhythm, and instrument play can all help a child feel organized and grounded.