When we think about childhood development, we often separate it into categories—cognitive, motor, social, emotional, sensory, and language development. Music, if mentioned at all, is usually placed in the “enrichment” bucket: nice to have, but not essential. But growing evidence suggests we need to reconsider how music supports child development—not as a separate “extra”, but as..
Music is more than a source of enjoyment; it’s a powerful tool for enhancing communication and language development. From early childhood to therapeutic settings, music engages the brain in ways that support speech, foster meaningful interaction, and lay the groundwork for expressive language. The Harmony Between Music and Language Music and language share foundational elements..
The difference between a Kindermusik educator and a Board Certified Music Therapist becomes evident when working with children who need extra developmental support. Not that one approach is better or worse than another, but each simply serves a different purpose. We are always thrilled to learn about children who benefit from community music classes such..
We are working to expand the possibilities for music therapy in Utah Early Intervention Programs. Here’s a brief overview of we are in the process. At Harmony Music Therapy we use music therapy with a variety of populations, one of which is children in Early Intervention. Children are typically involved in 0-3 early intervention programs..
Goals in music therapy in Early Intervention generally focus on speech and language, social skills, motor development and coordination, and/or cognitive development (following directions, attention span and focus). The thing that confuses people at times about goals in music therapy is that they do not specify music in the goal. This is because music is..
We LOVE working with Early Intervention programs in Utah. The kids progress, the programs get awesome feedback from parents, and it is a cost effective way to serve children with IFSP’s. We have worked with several Early Intervention programs throughout the state of Utah, and continue to receive positive feedback from these programs on..
When starting new services with Early Intervention Programs one of the critical components is to make sure that the provider is qualified and credentialed. Here’s how it works with music therapy. In the State of Utah, Baby Watch sets forth the guidelines for credentialing and authorizing Early Intervention service providers. For many providers this process..
In music therapy we were able to celebrate and maximize what this boy COULD do rather than focus on his disabilities. During music therapy he connected with his peers and showcased more of his true self. The director of an early intervention program approached me about adding an additional student to our music therapy group. The..
Music Therapy plays a significant role in the development of children with special needs. Here’s how it helped “ignite” the brain of a little boy with Down syndrome. During a trial session a mother of a young boy with Down’s syndrome was skeptical about pursuing music therapy services. Having a background in special education, she..
Music Therapy can be included as an Early Intervention Service under the IDEA Legislation. This means that your child can reap the benefits of music therapy during his or her time in Early Intervention. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) passed in 1986 supports states in providing identification of early intervention services for young children who..