Music has always played an important role in our lives. And for good reason, it is capable of creating emotions, calming us, and even helping us understand others. For some people, like children, music is even more important because it contributes to their development. Have you ever heard of music therapy? Do you know what it is? We'll tell you everything there is to know about the subject in this article!
What is music therapy?
Music therapy actually refers to therapy through music . This therapeutic technique uses music to achieve specific goals, whether clinical or educational. Used in this way, music can have several beneficial effects : stimulation of motor skills, improvement of communication, promotion of the expression of emotions. And for children, music therapy allows to combine the pleasure of music with activities that contribute to their overall development.
Music therapy can include various approaches , including listening to music, musical improvisation, singing, using instruments. A music therapy session is always led by a trained professional , who can adapt the sessions according to the individual needs of each child (regardless of age and condition).
What are the benefits of music therapy for children?
Develop emotions and reduce stress
It is not uncommon for children to have difficulty understanding and expressing their emotions. This is why music therapy is interesting: music offers a different way to express oneself . In this way, children can share and make others understand what they feel without using words, but with the help of sounds and rhythms. In this way, they transform their emotions into something more concrete.
In addition, after several studies, we now know that music therapy helps reduce stress levels in children. Soothing melodies, regular rhythms, harmonious sounds: these are all resources that help reduce anxiety and promote calm . And it is particularly appreciated in situations that can be stressful (hospitalization, difficult transitions, etc.).
Encourage expression and communication
Music therapy is also an interesting tool to encourage expression and communication . Music can be a means of communicating , other than standard verbal communication, particularly in children with language difficulties or in children with autism spectrum disorders.
Moreover, repeating simple songs is also a technique that allows children to strengthen their vocabulary and improve the articulation and pronunciation of words . In fact, as a general rule, rhythm and melody help to memorize words or sentences more easily.
Improve cognitive skills
Music stimulates several areas of the brain , which therefore contributes to the child's cognitive development . For example, learning to play an instrument or just following a rhythm requires several skills at once: concentration, memory, coordination. Another example: to play percussion, a certain synchronization between movements and sounds is required, which ultimately develops fine motor skills.
At the same time, research has shown that music can also improve math and logic skills . By listening to and reproducing rhythmic patterns, children develop the skills needed to solve math problems more effectively.
Promote social and relational development
Since they are usually done in groups, we can also say that music therapy sessions promote children's social development . And it's not easy to play music with several people! It requires listening to others, respecting each person's turn, but also knowing how to coordinate each person's actions. Music therapy sessions can help children develop their empathy and their ability to work in a group . And for shy children, for example, music can be a very good starting point. Playing music or singing with several people creates a climate of trust, where each child can feel a little more comfortable with the others.
Contribute to motor development
Finally, the last advantage of music therapy for children: it can contribute to their motor development . Indeed, many musical activities involve movement: playing an instrument, dancing, clapping. They therefore require coordination between the body and the brain , which is essential for the development of motor skills. Music is therefore important for the physical development of children, but it also has a positive impact on other daily activities.
Is music therapy suitable for children with special needs?
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
Children with autism spectrum disorders are often drawn to musical sounds. That is why music therapy is often considered a way to facilitate social interaction and improve communication . This explains why therapists use music to encourage listening, imitation, or any other skill that is essential for children's socialization.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Children with ADHD typically have trouble staying focused and are full of energy. Music therapy provides a structured environment for these children to channel their energy . Playing an instrument or singing requires attention and a certain level of composure, which helps children focus better and stay calm more easily .
Language and communication disorders
Finally, for children with language difficulties , music is a serious option to consider to help in the development of language skills . Singing for example is known to help work on articulation, vocabulary or even voice modulation.
How does a music therapy session take place?
In music therapy, as in any other type of therapy, the role of the therapist is crucial. This professional must ensure that the therapy is adapted to the needs of each patient, here each child. This usually begins with a complete assessment of the child, to determine which musical activities will be most beneficial. Sessions can include various activities such as listening to different music, improvising with instruments, singing or even musical games.
In all cases, the most important thing is to create a safe environment where the child feels free to explore. The therapist should encourage the child to participate actively, even if it simply means clapping or shaking an instrument.
Conclusion
Finally, music is much more than just an activity. Used in music therapy, it is a real development and healing tool for children. And for good reason, it is associated with various benefits, including the fact that it promotes emotional, cognitive, motor, but also social development. Whether or not your child has specific needs, music therapy provides support to children in a fun and interactive setting. So, are you ready to get started?
