My son (who has ASD) started with Music Therapy through the Midland County ESA at around 2 years old. He also had speech therapy and OT. It may not be the same for all kids, but my son LOVED music therapy! He made the greatest strides in his communication during his music therapy sessions because the music was very motivating for him. It was a highly preferred activity and it was SO amazing to see the communication skills he was gaining. Fast forward several years (my son is now 17) and he still loves music...he plays the tuba. Being a part of band in school has been life changing for him.
1) During the tough "middle school" years, being in band class helped motivate him to go to school when he didn't want to go.
2) Being part of the band helped him feel that wonderful feeling of being an important and valued member of a "group" of people/of a team.
3) Band has "section" parties...this was the first party of his peers that he attended "alone" (he had been to a few birthday parties over the years with me). I was such a nervous Mom, dropping him off that first time! It went well (whew!)...but, boy, did he have some interesting questions when I picked him up! Lol!
4) Playing tuba hasn't always been easy...he has had to work hard and get through some tough practice sessions. I'm so glad he is learning perseverance while doing something he loves. I love that he gets so much positive feedback through music and that he feels pride in his accomplishments.
These are just a few of the benefits. I could go on and on.... 🙂
I will be forever grateful for those early music therapy sessions. Over the years, I've had my son get involved in (try) a lot of different activities, and I always say that the best "therapy" is that which is "disguised" as FUN! ❤️ Music Therapy was the first time I noticed this. I noticed what a difference it could make to both my son's acquisition of skills and to his quality of life. 🌻
