The benefits of music therapy for special needs students

Music therapy can be a fun way to motivate and encourage students to learn, especially for children with special needs who not only get the benefit of a richer learning environment, but also the advantage of developing behavior and social skills.

Following are the benefits on how music can assist students with special needs.

1. Cognitive/ Academic. Some children who rarely speak will sing along with songs that they have learned, showing that they are actually demonstrating a lot of memorization and retention. For example, many learning songs such as the “ABC’s” or “Head, shoulders, knees, and toes,” are songs based on basic knowledge, but aid in memory and organizing information.

2. Communication/ Social Interaction. Playing music or instruments with others can build a sense of community for children who are not connected in other ways. Being able to express themselves through singing and playing instruments may be easier than communicating through words. In group environments, playing music can also promote social skills like turn taking and following directions.

3. Motor Abilities. Many children’s songs like “The Hokey Pokey,” include basic motor movements that can increase skill areas in a child’s body. Playing instruments such as drums or wind instruments not only teaches students rhythm and memorization, but also increases fine motor skills due to the variety of grips and hand positions to make a sound.

4. Music Appreciation. Learning about music builds children’s appreciation as members of an audience for other’s performances, as well as an understanding of music as a form of expression. This opens up opportunities for our students to create their own new interests as well as their own talents and ability in performances.

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