Music and autism

By raluca.olariu@…, 11 August, 2022
headphones on a music sheet

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social interaction, communication skills, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests. People with autism often struggle to develop friendships or form lasting relationships.

Music therapy has been shown to improve symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), such as anxiety, depression, and hyperactivity. In addition, music therapy has also been found to increase attention span, reduce aggression, and improve language development.

Music therapy is a type of psychotherapy that uses musical activities to promote emotional growth and well-being. The goal of music therapy is to enhance the ability of individuals with ASD to communicate through music.

Key benefits of music for children with autism

Music has been long shown to provide plenty of benefits for people with ASD. Here are some of them:

  • Music can help children with autism learn new things.

Children with autism have difficulty learning new things. They may not be able to understand what they see on television or read in books. However, when it comes to music, they are more likely to learn new concepts and remember them better than in other subjects.

  • Music helps children with autism express their feelings.

When children with autism sing songs, they tend to use words that describe how they feel. For example, if a child feels happy, he might sing about his happiness. If he feels sad, he will sing about sadness. This allows him to express himself without having to talk.

  • Music makes children with autism happier.

Research shows that listening to music can make children with autism happier. ​​​​​​It can also help them relax and calm down.

  • Music can help children who have trouble communicating.

Many children with autism have difficulties with speech. When they listen to music, they can easily follow along. This helps them to communicate with others.

  • Music improves self-esteem.

Research shows that music therapy can improve self-esteem among children with autism.

  • Music can help children cope with stress.

Stress affects everyone at one time or another. Children with autism are especially vulnerable to stress because they are unable to control their emotions. Listening to music can help them deal with stress.

  • Music can help with sleep.

People with autism sometimes suffer from insomnia. Listening to soothing music can help them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

  • Music can help children with autism focus.

Listening to music can help children with autism pay attention. They can concentrate better while doing something else like playing an instrument.

  • Music can help children get motivated.

Some children with autism do not seem interested in anything. Listening to music helps them become more engaged.  

How to use music to reduce autistic symptoms

There are many ways you can use music to treat your child’s autism.

You can play music for your child during meals, bedtime, bath time, and even before going to school. Below are some examples of how you can use music to reduce autistic behaviors:

  • Play calming music before bedtime. You should avoid using loud music before bedtime. Loud music can cause restlessness and anxiety. Instead, choose soft music that soothes your child. You can also play soothing music as your child goes to sleep. This way, he won’t be disturbed by noise.
  • Play relaxing music when your child eats. If your child tends to bite his food, then you should avoid using fast music. Fast music can increase agitation and aggression. Instead, play slow music. If your child has problems eating, you can try playing soft music. Soft music is easier to hear and less distracting.
  • Use music to teach your child. Children with autism often struggle with social skills. Playing music can help them learn these skills. For example, you can play the same song over and over again. Your child will eventually start imitating the sounds. They will begin to understand what the song means.
  • Play music to encourage your child to interact with other people. Children with autism may find it difficult to initiate conversations with other people. By playing music, you can give them the opportunity to practice talking.  

Learning to play an instrument may help your child with autism.

Playing an instrument can help your child with autism develop communication skills. It can also help him express himself through music. When you first introduce a new instrument to your child, you should make sure that he understands its purpose. Ask questions such as “What does this instrument do? How does it work? What sound does it produce?” Once your child knows the basics about the instrument, you can let him explore it on his own. He can experiment with different notes, rhythms, and melodies.

One popular instrument for children and teenagers is the ukulele. Ukuleles have four strings instead of five. The strings are tuned in fifths. There are two types of ukuleles – acoustic and electric. Acoustic ukuleles are made out of wood. Electric ukuleles are usually made out of plastic or metal.

The ukulele was originally developed in Hawaii. Hawaiian musicians used it to sing songs from their native islands. Today, ukuleles are very popular among young adults. They are easy to play and fun to listen to.

These Ukuleles are a perfect choice for beginners—have a look and choose the right one for your kid.

Playing a musical instrument like the ukulele can improve your child's ability to communicate and it can also develop their self-confidence.

Hopefully, this article has shown you why it is important to introduce music in the life of your child to help them reduce their symptoms and manage them more easily. 

Photo credit: Unsplash.