(Autism)+ Music Lessons= One Happy Child

The benefits of taking music lessons are well researched and known and every good parent knows that exposing their child to weekly music lessons will help a great deal with the development of their child. The benefits listed below are present in ALL children taking music lessons, regardless of whether they are on the Autism Spectrum (ASD) or not.

Communication: Music lesson intervention has been found to improve speech output among young children. It is especially helpful with vocalisation, verbalisation, and vocabulary in general. Music can be especially helpful for teaching children on the Spectrum (ASD) to effectively express their emotions in a safe space and way that might not be available to them otherwise.

Social Skills: Music serves as a way of communication, especially for children on the Autism Spectrum (ASD). It encourages them to be more socially engaged with their peers during a play session accompanied by music, as well as fostering a ''being kind'' environment and interaction including sharing and taking turns.

Behaviour: Following directions is a big task to ask of any child! Music can also help to improve a child’s behaviour is it connects the auditory and motor parts of the brain. This can help a children better understand and obey verbal commands.

Cognition: Music is also known for improving cognitive development in children on the Autism Spectrum (ASD). The rhythmic patterns in music provide a structured way for children to organise and file auditory information, which aids memorisation and learning daily routines. Through repetition and ''going over things'' in lessons, a child's attention span will also be greatly improved as music lessons continue.

Emotions: The repetitive and predictability of classical music are extremely beneficial for relieving anxiety in children. Introducing music into your child's routine will help decrease anxious behaviours and improve their concentration.