Yoga + Music: a Recipe for Kids' Success

Have you ever met a person who doesn't like music?  With so many different styles and genres to meet every listener's tastes, it's no wonder that music can play such a big part in the lives of so many diverse people.  Music makes us happier, and it makes us smarter - hearing my favorite song on the radio can salvage even my worst mood, and I can even remember some Japanese words from a song that I learned way back in first grade.  Recent studies have confirmed music's undeniable positive influences on mental health and cognitive ability, particularly for children with autism.

While music can provide a great source of emotional release for anyone, it is an especially valuable therapeutic tool for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.  Music Therapy is a successful approach to helping children and adults with autism to reach their full potential to lead happy and productive lives.  By its very nature, music is accessible for people of all ages and abilities.  Studies involving children with autism have shown that music can help encourage social interactions, improve behavior, improve communication, and even reduce anxiety.  Music is stimulating and fun, making it the perfect teaching tool!

Like music, yoga practice can also be beneficial for kids with autism.  The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that a regimen of yogic movement alongside music therapy was effective in treating key symptoms of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.  Yoga and music education together are a dynamic duo for child development.  All children can benefit from music and yoga!