Music Therapy for Autism

From Tuned Into Learning:

As defined by Autism Speaks, Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors.

1. Music therapy and autism research supports a link between musical processing strengths and autism and the use of music as a therapeutic intervention.
2. Singing can be an in-road to promote early speech by helping children access new neurological pathways to compensate for communication deficits.
3. Music is at its core a structured way to present information. Melodic and rhythmic patterns give students with autism a way to organize auditory information and help memorize scripts, task sequences, and academic facts.
4. Music can help individuals with autism make social and family connections through a mutual shared interest.
5. Music is a creative medium that can offer a motivating and safe way to explore more flexibility and spontaneity.

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