Music has a deep effect on learners with special needs

Music has a deep effect on learners with special needs because it has a positive influence on many parts of their intellectual, emotional, and social development. For those with autism Down syndrome, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or other learning disabilities, music is more than a source of entertainment; it serves as a calming tool, an instrument for expression, and an aid in educational development.

Research has shown that music can improve memory, boost communication skills, increase emotional well-being, and encourage social interaction. This makes it important for those helping special-needs learners.

Music stimulates both sides of the brain, so it helps to improve memory recall. This is especially important for learners with ADHD or dyslexia, where focus and remembering information can be difficult.

For learners with autism or Down syndrome, who struggle with speech and communication, music can be a way to develop language skills. Singing or using musical speech patterns can help these learners improve their vocabulary, pronunciation, and sentence structure. The repetitive nature of songs helps memory retention, making it easier for learners to grasp – and retain – new concepts.

Music can calm moods and reduce anxiety, which is important for learners who may experience sensory overload (when the brain receives more input from the five senses than it can sort through and process) or emotional dysregulation (trouble controlling your emotions), as is common with autism or ADHD. For them, listening to music or taking part in musical activities can provide a sense of comfort and security.

For learners who may have difficulty expressing themselves verbally, music provides an outlet for emotional expression. This can be empowering for those who find it easier to communicate their feelings through rhythm or sound.

Another important effect of music on learners with special needs is its ability to promote social interaction. Group music activities, such as singing or playing instruments in a group encourages teamwork, cooperation, and communication. These activities provide learners with special needs the opportunity to interact with their peers in a non-verbal and less-structured environment. This helps them build relationships and improve their social skills. Music offers a way to engage with others without the pressure of the usual communication methods.

Regardless of their intellectual or physical abilities, many learners can participate in musical activities, helping to bridge the gap between special-needs learners and their mainstream peers. This boosts a sense of community and inclusion, which is important for the self-esteem and emotional development of learners with special needs.

For more information visit: https://www.themusicroomleeds.com/tmr-blog/2020/4/16/the-power-of-music-for-children-with-special-needs