The Therapeutic Power of Music for Children with Autism
Music therapy has emerged as a powerful intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), offering unique pathways to communication, emotional expression, and social connection.
Why Music Works
Children with autism often respond positively to music because it:Provides predictable patterns that create a sense of safetyOffers non-verbal communication opportunitiesEngages multiple areas of the brain simultaneouslyCreates opportunities for social interaction in a structured way
Key Benefits
Communication Development
Music therapy helps children develop pre-verbal and verbal communication skills through rhythm, melody, and song. Many children who struggle with spoken language find it easier to sing or vocalize to music.
Emotional Regulation
The structured nature of music provides a framework for understanding and expressing emotions. Children learn to recognize and regulate their emotional states through musical activities.
Social Skills
Group music therapy sessions create natural opportunities for turn-taking, sharing, and collaborative music-making, building essential social skills in a supportive environment.
Evidence-Based Approaches
Research consistently shows that music therapy interventions can lead to improvements in:Joint attentionEye contactVerbal and non-verbal communicationSocial-emotional reciprocitySensory processing
At Flinders Stokes Music Therapy, we use evidence-based approaches tailored to each child’s unique needs and strengths.
References
1. Geretsegger, M., Elefant, C., Mössler, K. A., & Gold, C. (2014). Music therapy for people with autism spectrum disorder. *Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews*, 6, CD004381.
2. LaGasse, A. B. (2017). Social outcomes in children with autism spectrum disorder: A review of music therapy outcomes. *Patient Related Outcome Measures*, 8, 23-32.
3. Sharda, M., et al. (2018). Music improves social communication and auditory–motor connectivity in children with autism. *Translational Psychiatry*, 8(1), 231.
4. Thompson, G. A., McFerran, K. S., & Gold, C. (2014). Family-centred music therapy to promote social engagement in young children with severe autism spectrum disorder: A randomized controlled study. *Child: Care, Health and Development*, 40(6), 840-852.
5. Wigram, T., & Gold, C. (2006). Music therapy in the assessment and treatment of autistic spectrum disorder: Clinical application and research evidence. *Child: Care, Health and Development*, 32(5), 535-542.