Art and Music Therapy for Children

Though they vary greatly from culture to culture, individual to individual, art and music are a fundamental part of the human condition. Virtually every known society throughout human history has found a way to express itself audibly and visually. From primitive pictographs smeared on cave walls to the Sistine Chapel, from strictly percussive pieces to whole symphonies, our species has continuously demonstrated a need to put creative energies to good use.

Perhaps it is this universal quality that allows art and music to aid communication even in instances where it might otherwise be difficult. Researchers have been experimenting for years with alternative creative therapies that allow autistic children to more effectively reach out to both their peers and adults. Although more research is needed, such therapies have already changed the lives of many families for the better.

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), or varying degrees of autism, typically have difficulty relating to and communicating on an emotional level with other individuals. Both music and art improve social engagement and expression.

Multiple studies have shown the benefits of creative therapies in children with ASD. For instance, a study by the Journal of Music Therapy in 2004 found that music therapy improved attention, focus, social behaviors and communication. A similar 2009 study by Kim, Wigram, & Gold also showed that autistic children were markedly more engaged during musical sessions. They clapped their hands, danced and responded communally to the rhythms. These therapies need to be further developed, but by helping to directly engage autistic children with the world around them, they have already shown tremendous promise.

Being the parent of a child with ASD can be challenging and, at times, frustrating. Children with ASD may have difficulty expressing affection or, in some cases, any emotion at all. They may be reluctant to make eye contact and can initially appear indifferent to even close family members. As a parent, it is important to seek out the emotional support that you need and to remember to be patient. Bear in mind that you may need to try different sorts of therapies to find one that works for your child. With time, love and attention, children with ASD can build fulfilling relationships and lead full, rewarding lives.

References.

1. The Harvard Crimson: Music Alters Autism Therapy. Available from: http://www.thecrimson.com/article/2011/10/11/autism-speaks-and-sings/. Accessed on June 2, 2015.

2. Autism Science Foundation: Music Therapy May Help Children with Autism. Available from: https://autismsciencefoundation.wordpress.com/2013/08/30/music-therapy-may-help-children-with-autism/. Accessed on June 2, 2015.
3. US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health: Music in intervention for children and adolescents with autism: a meta-analysis. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15307805. Accessed on June 2, 2015.

Photo Credit: Wolfgang Lonien via Compfight cc