Often times, music therapy is confused for music lessons. Music therapy is a technique used to help children based on a specific need such as autism or special needs. With music lessons, children are learning how to play an instrument, so there is a significant difference. It is surprising to learn just how many people have never heard of music therapy. Albert Knapp & Associates’ music therapist John Mews is a top provider of musical therapy, helping children to be able to communicate better, improve social skills and work on a number of other factors, including motor skills.

It is important for parents to understand the difference between music therapy and music lessons. When a child is in need of assistance with particular skills, therapy is the best choice. However, many parents are duped by ineffective musical therapy treatments methods. Parents who have their children enrolled in music therapy should routinely check the progress of the child. You want to ensure that your child is meeting goals and objectives in a timely manner.

With music lessons, children are learning the actual instrument, creating music on a higher level. Over time, a child will be able to play notes as well as full songs. With musical therapy, the child plays the instrument to be able to enhance social, learning and cognitive abilities. There is no goal of actually learning how to use the instrument at a perfected rate. The goal is to use the music to enhance the abilities of the child.

The musical instruments are tools that will be used by the child to achieve the goals set. In a group setting, children can use the instrument to learn listening skills, how to share and how to increase social skills. In an individual setting, the child can use the instrument such as a drum to increase communication skills, build self-confidence and fine tune motor skills.