Music Therapy in Early Childhood
Early childhood is the period from birth to eight years old and is a time of remarkable growth and brain development.
During this stage, children learn holistically, meaning that social, emotional, cognitive, language, and physical lessons are learned from the whole experience.
In typically developing babies and toddlers, music therapy is used to enhance and develop socialisation, communication, self- expression, and sensory-motor skills.
It does this by encouraging a child’s development through activities such as singing, instrumental play, movement, songwriting, sensory play and relaxation to music.
Music therapy provides opportunities for children to achieve sensory integration and emotional regulation; to develop their communication and social skills and encourage general development through musical play.
One of the reasons music therapy works so well with children is that it gets their brains and bodies working while they are having fun, building a solid and broad foundation for lifelong learning and wellbeing.
What is Early Childhood Intervention?
Early childhood intervention aims to provide children from ages 0 to 8 with developmental delays with access to services and support to have the best possible start to life.
Research has shown that receiving support as early as possible significantly improves developmental and learning outcomes as children already naturally learn so much in their early years.
These outcomes enable children to participate in school, build friendships, and access recreational opportunities in the future.
General goal areas for music therapy in early childhood and early intervention include:
- Gross and fine motor control
- Communication
- Social communication
- Attention and focus
- Following instructions
- Body awareness & self-regulation
- Sensory integration
- Age appropriate concepts
- Basic literacy & numeracy
- Empowering and educating parents to support their child through music
How can I access music therapy for early childhood intervention?
Music therapists offer early intervention services in education, paediatric and private practice settings. Many families access music therapy through private practice settings.
Get Started Today
Contact us today to learn more about how Music Beat Therapy Services can support your child and book in for an assessment.