Early Childhood Music Therapy and Autism Spectrum Disorders: Developing Potential in Young Children and Their Families

This is a comprehensive overview of current research and music therapy practice for young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and their families. Music therapy interventions based on ASD-specific treatment approaches including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Social Stories, Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy and DIR/Floortime Model are introduced, along with instructional strategies and techniques. The book discusses collaboration and consultation with interdisciplinary team members, including early childhood educators, speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists. There is an evaluation of family-centered practice, how to integrate music into home routines and insights from music therapists who are parents of children with ASD. Case scenarios, examples, checklists, charts, tip sheets, music scores and further resources are included. Throughout the book's sixteen chapters, renowned experts share knowledge and practical applications that will enable music therapists, students, professionals, educators, families and anyone interested in working with young children with ASD, to implement effective music therapy practices.