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Recently, I was observing a preschool classroom. They were participating in a circle-time activity with a silly song that had motions for the students to follow. I found myself looking on in amazement; my students were attempting to participate and imitate the motions. I wondered why they were doing so much better in circle time than they do in my pull out therapy sessions. Could it be the music?

I decided to take a look at the effects of music, so I know when and how to incorporate it into my therapy practice.

Music Therapy is actually a growing area of healthcare that uses music as part of the healing process for patients with a variety of diagnoses such as ADD, cancer, autism, depression and others. Research has shown us the many ways music affects our bodies and minds:

1. Brain waves: The rhythm of music can stimulate brainwaves to resonate in sync. Faster beats help with focus and concentration, while slower beats promote calm and relaxation. Music also teaches the brain how to more easily switch between various states of arousal.

2. Relaxation: Music can help to slow breathing and heart rate, which are controlled by the autonomic nervous system. This helps promote relaxation and decreases perceived stress level.

3. Motor coordination: Eye-hand coordination is important in the playing of musical instruments. Instruments can be strategically used to encourage use of various muscle groups. Additionally, rhythmic music can help to regulate gait rhythms in children with atypical gait patterns.

4. Communication: Singing and speech are similar, and vocal exercises can enhance oral motor skills like articulation, breath control, and vocal intensity. Music is also an effective tool for encouraging spontaneous speech as well as sign language.

5. Reinforcement/motivation: Music can provide a positive atmosphere that acts as reinforcement for the learning environment. Music can also act as a diversion from difficult tasks so that they seem less tedious.

6. Socialization: Music provides good opportunities for socializing, whether during group music time or musical games. It also provides a good mode of self-expression.

There are many ways to incorporate music into your therapy practice:

1. Hemi-sync Technology: This music is compiled of “complex, multilayered audio signals, which act together to create a resonance that is reflected in unique brain wave forms characteristic of specific states of consciousness. The result is a focused, whole-brain state known as hemispheric synchronization, or Hemi-Sync, where the left and right hemispheres are working together in a state of coherence. Different Hemi-Sync signals are used to facilitate deep relaxation, focused attention or other desired states. Hemi-Sync produces a focused, coherent mind, which is an optimal condition for improving human performance.” Check out www.hemi-sync.com for more information on this technology.

2. Coordinate Music with Sensory Input: Begin your session with invigorating music and vestibular input. End your session with calming, slow music and deep pressure.

3. Craft Instruments: Have your students create instruments as a fine motor project.

4. Background music: Play music in the background as your students draw or play.

5. Play instruments: Use simple percussion instruments as part of therapy to help with bilateral coordination.

6. Sing or hum: Singing and humming can help regulate breathing and organize the child.

7. Play musical games: Encourage turn taking by passing an instrument back and forth.

After learning so much about music therapy, I really do think it can contribute to improved gross motor success for my students. I can’t wait to try some of these ideas in my therapy sessions!