Children with autism often grapple with finding the right words to communicate their emotions. Yet, music seems to open up a different world for them. There’s growing evidence that kids with autism are drawn to music and show a keen interest in music education early on.
As a mom of three young adult sons with high-functioning autism, I’ve seen firsthand how music can become a powerful means of expression. I encouraged my boys to pick up instruments like the bassoon, French horn, and baritone from a young age. As both a doctoral student and a music teacher, I’ve witnessed incredible emotional growth through music in my own family and in my classroom.
From 2003 to 2018, I ran a K-12 arts school in Tampa, Florida, focused on students with learning and developmental disabilities. Every student was encouraged to join some form of music group, such as a concert band or jazz ensemble, or take private lessons. Over the years, I’ve watched students with autism undergo remarkable transformations when they embraced music.
I remember one student who couldn’t speak but would hum tunes to express her feelings. Each melody aligned with her emotions, conveying more than words ever could. Another student with Asperger’s took piano and composition lessons. Although he struggled to articulate emotions verbally, his original compositions beautifully described his internal world on days when he felt sad, happy, angry, or lonely.
Studies reveal that kids with autism can grasp both simple and complex emotions through music. Compared to other kids, they seem to respond more keenly to sensory input via music rather than through words or noise. This might help explain why some children with autism exhibit extraordinary musical talents.
Musical emotions are simpler for children with autism to understand. They don’t have to navigate the intricate social cues tied to facial expressions or vocal tones. Music offers a clear, less socially confusing way to connect with emotions.
When it comes to practical applications, educators can leverage music to enhance language skills in students with autism. Techniques like using songs and vocabulary cards have been shown to significantly aid language development. One study highlighted how music can refocus attention, keep students with disabilities engaged, and reduce stress-related anxiety. Providing children with autism the chance to engage with music positively can significantly boost their social and language achievements.
Music is made up of elements like pitch, melody, and rhythm, among others. However, sounds can be overwhelming for some children with autism due to auditory sensitivity. This makes it important to simplify music by separating these elements.
For example, teachers might start with single notes on a piano and introduce additional elements slowly, depending on what the child can handle. If an element becomes too much, it can be scaled back until the child is ready to handle more complex music.
There are many online resources designed for children with autism. Programs like the Khan Academy Music Unit or apps like Chrome Music Lab provide tailored musical experiences that help kids explore at their own pace. Older children might enjoy interactive platforms like Yousician or Flowkey, which offer music lessons that let them express their emotions through instruments, even when words fail.
Through my experiences, I’ve learned that while many children with autism find it challenging to communicate feelings verbally, music can bridge that gap. It allows them to understand and express emotions in new ways. I hope that as you guide your students and children with autism on their music journey, you’ll discover new ways to help them express themselves and connect with the world.