The term "developmental disability" refers to a wide range of long-term health conditions caused by physical or mental impairments. A child with a developmental disability -- for example, autism or cerebral palsy -- will commonly struggle with language, learning, daily activities or mobility in comparison to her typically-developing peers. Music therapy is one complementary therapy that can help children with developmental disabilities develop these skills.
Music Therapy Aims
Music therapy places more emphasis on the therapeutic effects of music than on developing specifically musical skills. Through music therapy sessions, children with developmental disabilities can improve their physical skills and coordination, as well as their ability to communicate with others and express emotions. Structured musical improvisation is a common mode of music therapy, with little if any emphasis on musical notation or pre-existing compositions.
Content of Music Therapy
Music therapy sessions do not usually look or sound like traditional instrumental music lessons. Therapy sessions may take place in a group or individual setting, with a therapist working with one or more children with developmental disabilities. Personal care assistants may attend the therapy session to support an individual child. Any instruments can be used in music therapy -- some of the common instruments used include piano or electronic keyboard, percussion instruments and drums, simple guitars and string instruments, and the human voice.
Communication Skills
Music therapy is commonly used to improve or develop communications skills in children with developmental disabilities. Making music in a therapeutic setting can lead to spontaneous vocalizations, singing or the development of clearer speech sounds. An Australian study, reported in the Fall 2003 issue of the "Journal of Music Therapy," examined the development of intentional and preintentional communication in children with severe and multiple disabilities. The study found music therapy helpful in motivation to communicate, attention to objects and interest in interaction.
Skill Areas Addressed
A study reported in the Spring 2004 issue of the "Journal of Music Therapy," assessed the different skill areas addressed by music therapists working with children with developmental disabilities. A total of 108 music therapists completed surveys regarding their work and their assessment methods. The most common skill area assessed by music therapists was in motor skills, followed by communication, social skills, cognitive skills and specific music skills.
References
- "Journal of Music Therapy"; Music Therapy Assessment for Children with Developmental Disabilities: A Survey Study; K.M. Chase; Spring 2004
- "Journal of Music Therapy"; Relating Improvisational Music Therapy with Severely and Multiply Disabled Children to Communication Development; M.M. Rainey Perry; Fall 2003
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Developmental Disabilities
- Music Therapy Research; Barbara L. Wheeler; 2005
