July 7, 2022
July 7, 2022
While many people don’t automatically assume that autism and playing an instrument can go hand-in-hand, research has found that autistic children can greatly benefit from this type of therapy.
Is learning an instrument good for autism?
Music therapy can be highly beneficial for autistic children for several reasons. The first has to do with their ability to retain information. Learning an instrument requires use of motor skills and cognitive function. When an autistic child sits down to learn an instrument, they’re sharpening both of those skills without even realizing it.
Some research has also found that encouraging a child with autism to learn an instrument can actually reduce their symptoms, including impaired ability to socialize. In many cases, children on the autism spectrum find neurotypical communication and socialization difficult, but that symptom can be greatly improved if they choose to learn how to play a musical instrument.
What type of music is good for autistic children?
Another aspect of music therapy involves simply listening to music as a way to deal with certain episodes or other uncomfortable situations an autistic child may find themselves in. When it comes to what kind of music, there is no one-size-fits-all category because each child is different; however, it’s thought that classical music could be best utilized to help with anxiousness or agitation in certain scenarios. The calming and soothing effects of classical music can relieve children’s negative feelings quicker than simply waiting for them to pass.
When it comes down to it, the best music for autistic children is the music that they prefer. For example, if your child feels the most comfortable listening to rock music, that may be the best option for them. Another child may find rock music completely offputting and turn towards jazz instead. It’s a matter of personal preference, so pay attention to your child’s wants and interests.
What instrument is good for an autistic child?
There is no one instrument that’s good for an autistic child to learn, but some of the best options can include:
Ukulele
The ukulele is a smaller guitar-like instrument that has four strings instead of six. It is a great choice for children because its size is much more manageable when they’re trying to learn. Instead of having to fumble and hold something that might even be larger than they are, the ukulele will fit comfortably within any child’s arms.
This instrument is also easier to learn because it has fewer strings – many kids will find it easier to work with four than six. Since the ukulele also requires the use of both hands as well as hand-eye coordination, it can help build many motor functions at once.
The sound of a ukulele is also cheerful and happy. Even if a child hits the wrong note, it usually won’t sound too terrible! This ease of play makes it a great choice for children who wish to learn an instrument without having to dive too far into the deep end.
Keyboard
While the keyboard may seem too adventurous for some, it’s the perfect starting instrument for many autistic children because it provides so many musical options to choose from. Most keyboards not only play like a piano, but also have other music options and sounds built in, which can help spark creativity in your child. Furthermore, when it comes to focus and motor skills, dealing with the dozens of keys on a keyboard is a great way to help your child learn how to stay focused on one thing, even if it’s a bit daunting to start with.
The best way to introduce the keyboard into your child’s life is slowly. You could even add colors to the keys that allow them to play within a certain section until they are more comfortable with the entire keyboard. If the full keyboard is a no go, you could try a mini one to start them off and have them work their way to a full-size option.
Violin
Violins are notoriously difficult to learn, but that doesn’t mean it won’t be a great experience for your child. Many children, including those with autism, love to challenge themselves, and learning how to play the violin is a great way to do that.
This instrument utilizes a small stringed body with a bow that produces sound as its dragged across the strings. Using the fingers of one hand, your child will learn to make notes while simultaneously using the bow with their other. This complicated process requires keen focus, fine motor skills, and concentration. It can be a great way to fine-tune many skills at once.
For some autistic children, playing the violin can also provide an escape. The world can melt away around them as they zero in on the instrument. This can give them an activity they can turn to when things in the world become a little too much.
While this list is not nearly exhaustive, these are three great instrument options that you can explore with your child. To see if they are interested, find videos of people playing each instrument and gauge their reaction. If their attention is caught, you may have found the right one for them!