Kids with Down Syndrome and Music Therapy
Using Music to Influence Changes in Learning Patterns
Mar 1, 2009
Children with Down Syndrome often have speech and language problems. Neurodevelopmentalists have a very different approach to these problems than the normal therapeutic route. Music therapy is the prescribed, structured use of music and music strategies by a trained music therapist to influence changes in the learning or behavior patterns of a child.
Music therapists working with children who are developmentally disabled select objectives from the individualized education plan that can be reinforced and supported through the use of music strategies.
The music therapist then selects and designs songs, instrumental activities, movement activities and other types of related musical approaches that will help address the designated IEP objectives. Number flashcards paired with a song about numbers to encourage number recognition may be used.
The therapist might also utilize instruments with numbers taped to them to further develop number recognition. The child will consistently be encouraged to use a short phrase to request items. Often, when a student sees something he or she really wants, then a phrase can be more easily encouraged.
The Rhythms of Sound Have a Powerful Impact on Cognition
The following profile illustrates the ways in which music therapy can be of value in assisting children with Down syndrome to learn.
- The rhythms of sound have a powerful impact on cognition. The information most adults consistently recall from childhood is songs and rhymes.
- Music therapy engages the emotions; thus unlocking the brain and preparing it for learning.
- People have at least seven distinct intelligences. Often people with special needs learn best through music because that part of the brain is an older part of the brain and less likely to be damaged from birth defects, accidents, etc.
- Enriched environments literally change the brain.
- Singing and chanting relaxes students which puts them in the optimal state for language learning.
- For students with special needs, retention of cognitive skills may be more consistent when music therapy strategies are used.
- Memorizing songs and rhymes is a helpful step towards developing literacy skills.
- The rhythm and repetition of the texts of songs help students internalize the sounds and patterns of language.
- Long term word for word accuracy in recall often comes if something is set to words and melody. (i.e., A-B-C song)
- Connecting song, language and movement dramatically increases learning.
- Rhythm, rhyme and music are powerful hooks to memory.
- Music is a valued tool for stimulating the right side of the brain; and also is helpful in encouraging bilateral activity between the brain hemispheres.
- Music can be paired with primary reinforcers (food) to help a student develop a reaction to a secondary reinforcer and reduce dependency on food rewards.
- The sounds and vibrations of music can be a temporary replacement for self-stimulating behaviors exhibited by a student.
- Music is an easy reinforcer to deliver; it doesn't require heavy duty equipment!
- Music used as a reinforcer does not tend to cause satiation, which is a common problem associated with food reinforcers.
Music is a Fun Tool to Motivate Children
Music can be an effective learning tool for many children with disabilities. Although, the effectiveness varies from child to child and it is important to remember that music therapy is not a cure for any type of disability. However, since music is processed by a different area of the brain than speech and language, a child may be able to more easily absorb information and skills presented with music. Music is also motivating and fun, which is useful when a child demonstrates low motivation to learn.
