Music Therapy in a Therapeutic Nursery

Abstract

Describes the use of music therapy (MT) in a therapeutic nursery setting, and shows its use in 2 case examples. Children (aged 2.5–5 yrs) in the therapeutic nursery suffer from a variety of disorders including autism, cerebral palsy, developmental delays, and emotional disturbance. D. W. Winnicott's (1971) definition of play as requiring the development of the capacity to use objects has special significance for working with young special needs children. Many of these children exhibit delays and can be aided in the maturational process by providing a facilitating environment; MT can promote such an environment. Musical instruments are active objects that are not functionally dependent on the child's level of initiative. MT provides physical stimulation, induces movement, and provides a 1st step toward active participation in reality and growth. Cases involving an emotionally and environmentally deprived boy and a developmentally delayed boy are presented. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)