Music Therapy and Special Education

MUSIC THERAPY AND SPECIAL EDUCATION

Music Therapy is considered a related service under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

When music therapy is deemed necessary to assist a child benefit from his/her special education, goals are documented on the Individualized Education Program (IEP) as a related service intervention.

Music therapy can be an integral component in helping the child with special needs attain educational goals identified by his/her IEP team.

Music therapy interventions can address development in cognitive, behavioral, physical, emotional, and social skills. Music therapy can also facilitate development in communication and sensorimotor skills.

Music therapy can offer direct or consultant services as determined by the individual needs of the child.

Music therapists can support special education classroom teachers by providing effective ways to incorporate music into their academic curriculum.

Music therapy involvement can stimulate attention and increase motivation to participate more fully in other aspects of the educational setting.

Music therapy interventions apply the inherent order of music to set behavioral expectations, provide reassurance, and maintain structure for children with special needs.

Music therapy can adapt strategies to encourage a child's participation in the least restrictive environment.

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