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Selective Mutism: How Music Therapy Helped a Child Find Her Voice

Summary

Quick Abstract

Unlock a child's voice with music therapy! This summary explores how music therapy sessions can help children with selective mutism overcome their communication barriers. Discover how creative musical interactions, even simple hello songs, can unlock a child's hidden voice and build confidence. We'll delve into the immediate positive impact and the pressing need for further research to solidify music therapy's effectiveness.

Quick Takeaways:

  • Music therapy provides a safe space for children with selective mutism to express themselves.

  • Initial sessions focus on building trust and rapport through musical conversations.

  • Verbal communication breakthroughs can occur quickly, sometimes within just a few sessions.

  • More research is needed to establish a stronger evidence base for music therapy's benefits.

Music Therapy and Selective Mutism

This article explores the potential benefits of music therapy for children with selective mutism and highlights the need for more research in this area.

Initial Observations and Progress

A child with selective mutism was initially presented as very quiet and non-verbal within the school environment. The child's first music therapy session was characterized by shyness, but she warmed up quickly. After the second session, a significant breakthrough occurred.

First Words and Reactions

The child spoke her first word during the music therapy session. This event was met with surprise and excitement from other children, who commented on her newfound ability to speak, highlighting the impact music therapy had on overcoming her shyness.

The Power of Music

The child expressed a clear enjoyment of music, stating that doing music was something she liked. This highlights the potential of music as a motivating factor and a comfortable medium for expression.

Building a Musical Conversation

Music therapists often begin with a simple "Hello" song to ease the child into the session. They then follow the child's lead, responding to their actions and initiating a musical conversation. This approach emphasizes responsiveness and creating a comfortable environment for the child to engage.

The Need for Further Research

While music therapy appeared to be very effective in this case, the importance of developing a strong evidence base through further research is underscored. The goal is to provide empirical support for the effectiveness of music therapy as an intervention for selective mutism.

Engagement and Discovery

During a music therapy session, a child discovered a toy duck. The simple act of finding and identifying the toy points to the ability of music therapy to unlock discovery and engagement.

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