"Without music, life would be an error." ~ Friedrich Nietzsche
Music Therapy is...
"an established healthcare profession that uses music to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals of all ages. Music therapy improves the quality of life for persons who are well and meets the needs of children and adults with disabilities or illnesses". (American Music Therapy Association Definition)
How Does Music Therapy Make a Difference with Young Children?
- Music Therapy is designed to be success-oriented and focus on a child's strengths and abilities rather than his/her weaknesses and disabilities.
- Music therapy can help enhance communication skills, social/interpersonal skills, self-expression, physical development, and self-awareness through the involvement in enjoyable musical experiences.
- Children can learn turn-taking, sharing, listening skills, and coping skills through participating in various music activities which are designed to accomplish his/her goals.
- Music Therapy helps improve/maintain muscle coordination, fine/gross motor skills, range of motion, and eye/hand coordination.
For more information, go to Music Therapy and Young Children and Music Therapy and Individuals with Diagnoses on the Autism Spectrum at American Music Therapy Association.
What is a Music Therapy Session Like?
- Each music therapy session is unique and designed to achieve individual goals and objectives.
- A music therapy session may involve singing, playing instruments, listening, improvising, writing songs, and creative activities depending upon a child's needs and target objectives.