Autism affects over 3 million Americans, yet little is understood about the disorder, which encompasses varying levels. Social interaction, speech, and behavior are all affected by the autism spectrum, which means that although it can begin at a very early age, it isn’t detected until the individual is old enough to exhibit the behavior or communication issue.
https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism
Some children on the autism spectrum are non-verbal, while others have limited capacity for communication. Some have problems processing information and can be easily overwhelmed in crowded, noisy places. For all of these children, learning can be a stressful time. However, studies have shown that music is one of the few things that works across the entire autism spectrum in helping children focus, learn communication methods, reduce anxiety, and improve social skills.
Music therapy can have a profound effect on the way a child who falls on the autism spectrum learns. Not only do the sounds stimulate brain function, but being in a classroom environment, sharing instruments, learning to listen and communicate with the teacher and other students, and playing games that involve moving around the room all have a positive effect on a child who has trouble with communication and stimulation. https://autismsciencefoundation.wordpress.com/2013/08/30/music-therapy-may-help-children-with-autism/
Music is also a way to express oneself that can be understood by other people. Often, it can be frustrating or cause feelings of shame for a child when they attempt to communicate with someone only to be ignored or misunderstood. Songs provide a universal language that help forge a bond with others, and because it stimulates both sides of the brain, it is a useful tool in getting children on the autism spectrum to open up and let go of the anxiety that commonly occurs with the disorder.
One of the best things about music is that it allows children a safe, creative outlet that can be employed almost anywhere to maximum effect. Games can be woven into music play, such as having the child fill in the last word of a song, using silly sounds or voices, and incorporating math and color learning by counting time and using a rainbow xylophone.
For some children, autism creates an issue with sensory overload, meaning loud sounds can make them feel anxious and out of control. It’s important to consult your child’s doctor before pursuing any type of music therapy in order to understand what the exact needs are. If drums and percussion are too much, consider soft classical music instead. String instruments can be incredibly soothing and can have a calming effect.
Of course, there are other ways that children who fall on the autism spectrum can learn social skills; working with animals has proven in many studies to be highly effective for children with mood or learning disorders. Pet ownership is, of course, not something to enter into lightly, but under the right circumstances, with the right dog, having an animal to bond with can be hugely beneficial.
“Children with autism may especially benefit from interacting with dogs, which can provide unconditional, nonjudgmental love and companionship,” says Dr. Gretchen Carlisle https://www.autismspeaks.org/science/science-news/autism-and-pets-more-evidence-social-benefits
Rover has a wonderful article about how an autism service dog can have a life-changing impact.
https://www.rover.com/blog/autism-service-dogs/
Regardless of whether or not you go down the pet ownership path, music will always be a helpful and meaningful way to help your child in a way that he/she can enjoy.
By Jenny Wise
Jenny Wise homeschools her four awesome children. As any homeschooling parent knows, every day is an adventure, and Jenny has begun chronicling her experiences at http://www.SpecialHomeEducator.com. She hopes to use the site to connect with other homeschoolers and to provide helpful advice to parents who may be considering a home education for their kids.