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| Image courtesy of Pixabay |
sounds, there is actual scientific proof that music is useful as a therapeutic tool. In fact, music
therapy has been used since the early 20th century as medical professionals observed positive
patient reactions to music as a way to cope with both physical and emotional trauma resulting
from fighting in World War II. Here’s how music can help children with ADHD or autism,
presented below by AxelPerez.us.
Music Therapy: The Mind and Body Connection
The intrinsic connection between the mind and body means that in order to improve one, it is
best to take care of both. Music has a potent effect on our emotions. The right song can change
our mood drastically. By using music to make a person feel more positive or relaxed, they are
better able to heal.
Music Therapy and ADHD
For children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, learning to play an instrument
combines the emotional benefits of music while helping instill discipline and self-esteem.
Music therapy can also be used to help a child concentrate. Classical music has been proven to help
children study and stay focused on tasks. With permission from their teacher, your child can
even listen to music on headphones while completing assignments.
Plus, music gives children a creative outlet where they can express themselves, improve
hand/eye coordination, and broaden their minds. While a child with ADHD doesn’t need to learn
to play an instrument to benefit from music therapy, it’s a great hobby and school subject for
them to become involved in if they are interested. The “if they are interested” part is pretty
crucial. One of the reasons music therapy is so effective for children is because it is non-
threatening and enjoyable -- forcing your child to participate kind of negates those aspects.
However, if your kid wants to learn to play, here is some helpful advice.
● When learning how to play an instrument, in-person lessons aren’t always necessary.
Online music lessons enable your child to learn in a virtual environment, and these
lessons may be cheaper because instructors won’t have to travel to your home.
● Introduce your child to a number of instruments they can learn how to play. Some music
schools offer complimentary introductory courses where they can experience the sounds
and feel of an instrument before committing. Let your child pick one they are comfortable
with so they are naturally inclined to play.
● In addition to multiple types of instruments, allow your children to become well versed in
the different genres of music. Your child may not be as into classical as, say, jazz or
pop. Knowing that there are other musical options out there for them will encourage
them to stick with it and make it their own.
● Pick an instrument that is acceptable for your child’s skill level and abilities. For instance,
many young musicians pick up and learn the clarinet before attempting to move on to a
saxophone. A clarinet is easier to handle and carry around, but it still teaches them how
to read music and fingering fundamentals that they can then apply to the saxophone
when they are ready.
● When it is time to buy an instrument, don’t invest in the most expensive, highest level
version. For instance, if your child wants to learn the trumpet, there’s no need to buy an
intermediate instrument with slide hooks and adjustable slide stops. A student trumpet is
more affordable and has all the tools necessary to learn the instrument. As they grow
and become more serious regarding their playing, you can trade their student instrument
in for a more advanced model.
● Lastly, if you live in an apartment, you need to be aware of your surroundings. A loud
instrument could disrupt your neighbors, limiting your child’s ability to practice. If
possible, look for a rental house that will allow your child to practice freely without
worrying about bothering people with whom you share walls. Online websites can help
you filter search results by number of bedrooms, neighborhood, and price.
***
Music therapy is a proven method that helps people improve both the mind and body. Children
with ADHD or autism can especially benefit from music therapy and learning to play an
instrument in particular. If they are interested in it, they learn discipline, improve their hand/eye
coordination, and have a creative outlet that helps broaden the mind. When picking out an
instrument, find one that appeals to their interests and allow them to start out with a small,
student-level model they can trade in as they continue to learn.
Article by,
| Jessica Brody |
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