Written by Eisla Sebastian
When you have a child that has autism you desperately seek things that will allow you to connect with them. One thing that has been effective at reaching many kids with autism is music. The connection between music and autism has not really been explained, but it most likely has to do with the structure that is inherent in music, its sensory stimulation and perhaps the stimulation of the music processing portion of the brain. Whatever the reason is, music can be a great tool for helping kids with autism to express themselves and to manage their behavior.
Music Therapy
Music therapy can be used with kids that have autism. It involves the use of music in a therapeutic setting to help produce desired reactions or behaviors. For example, it can be used to connect with autistic children who are normally withdrawn or non-responsive to people trying to communicate with them. Music therapy can also be used to help downgrade behavioral outbursts or to encourage physical interactions with another person.
Music as a Soother
Music has the ability to elicit emotional responses from people. This characteristic can be used to help sooth kids with autism when they are having a melt down or having a difficult time adjusting to a new environment. The key to using music as a soothing device is to find the type of music that your child find soothing, interesting or enjoyable. This can take some time and it will take experimentation. However, when you find the music track that works you will notice its impact right away.
Music Equipment
If you want to use music as a soothing tool or as a stimulator you will need to pick up a few pieces of equipment. First you will need a audio player such as a CD player or a boombox. When you purchase electronics look for devices that are designed for young children. These items are more resistant to damage caused by drops and impacts. In addition to a music player you will also need to pick up a good pair of headphones. You don't want to get the kind that insert into your ears, but the kind that have cushioned ear-muffs. If you can afford it, the ones that can cancel out sound work great. Finally you will need a collection of CDs or MP3 downloads, depending on what type of music player you select. If you are low on cash you can also utilize Internet radio stations like Slacker for a great selection of free music from all sorts of genres.
Music Therapy
Music therapy can be used with kids that have autism. It involves the use of music in a therapeutic setting to help produce desired reactions or behaviors. For example, it can be used to connect with autistic children who are normally withdrawn or non-responsive to people trying to communicate with them. Music therapy can also be used to help downgrade behavioral outbursts or to encourage physical interactions with another person.
Music as a Soother
Music has the ability to elicit emotional responses from people. This characteristic can be used to help sooth kids with autism when they are having a melt down or having a difficult time adjusting to a new environment. The key to using music as a soothing device is to find the type of music that your child find soothing, interesting or enjoyable. This can take some time and it will take experimentation. However, when you find the music track that works you will notice its impact right away.
Music Equipment
If you want to use music as a soothing tool or as a stimulator you will need to pick up a few pieces of equipment. First you will need a audio player such as a CD player or a boombox. When you purchase electronics look for devices that are designed for young children. These items are more resistant to damage caused by drops and impacts. In addition to a music player you will also need to pick up a good pair of headphones. You don't want to get the kind that insert into your ears, but the kind that have cushioned ear-muffs. If you can afford it, the ones that can cancel out sound work great. Finally you will need a collection of CDs or MP3 downloads, depending on what type of music player you select. If you are low on cash you can also utilize Internet radio stations like Slacker for a great selection of free music from all sorts of genres.
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