Current findings do show that children with ASD perform better at certain musical skills than typical children. For example, their memory recall of music is quick, especially when coupled with lyrics. Some can recite or sing a song after only one or a few listening experiences.
The Music and Communication Connection
Since then, researchers have systematically studied the musical processing abilities of individuals with autism and have shown that while language may sometimes be deficient, these individuals process music similarly to typically developing individuals."
Children with autism have also been shown to prefer musical learning compared to visual or auditory learning. Autistic children have a keen interest in music and remarkable musical abilities, which makes it easier for them to learn when music is made part of their learning.
Autistic listener's felt responses to music is (statistically) normal. Of course there are a diversity of autism phenomena. But in what are called “high-functioning” cases of autism, the musical response, as measured by GSR, was not significantly different from the non-autistic control group.
The first (and so far only) study of subjective experiences of music in autistic adults was done by Allen et al., (2009). The authors found that autistic adults most often use music to alter or match their moods and as a therapeutic tool (e.g., to ease emotional pain).
The results of 53 parent-reported questionnaires show that classical music (see also Bhatara & Quintin, 2013) and pop-rock are preferred genres in ASD compared to other genres (e.g., jazz or folk).
Pattern thinkers are in some ways, visual thinkers who instead of thinking in distinct images, see patterns in design, math, music and more in their day to day lives.
Many autistic people experience hypersensitivity to bright lights or certain light wavelengths (e.g., LED or fluorescent lights). Certain sounds, smells, textures and tastes can also be overwhelming. This can result in sensory avoidance – trying to get away from stimuli that most people can easily tune out.
Play: why it's important for autistic children
Autistic children enjoy and learn through play, just as typically developing children do. There are six main types of play, which develop in stages: exploratory play. cause-and-effect play.
Early signs of autism can be detected in babies by playing peek-a-boo, research has shown. If their brains respond less than they should to the stimulating game they are more likely to be diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as toddlers.
Often children with autism can sing much better than they can speak. Even totally nonverbal children will hum or babble along with the music. One of the first times my youngest used any sounds or words was in the car singing along with my Duran Duran, Adam Ant CDs along with other 1980s music.
We do know that children with autism don't always naturally generalise skills. They may only follow instructions the person who normally gives them or they may only follow them in the situation where it normally occurs.
They usually prefer to play alone and have challenges working together with others. Various types of therapy are available to help kids with autism and their families to play together and build relationships.
Hyperacusis (say it with me: HY-per-uh-CUE-sis), is an increased sensitivity to sound that is commonly found among people with autism. This means that certain noises, such as classroom bells, the radio or the TV, may be uncomfortable for your child to hear.
While many children with autism feel averse to hugging, some children with autism like to be hugged. Some children can swing the opposite way and want so many hugs that they feel hug deprived when they aren't getting enough.
Every autistic person is different, but sensory differences, changes in routine, anxiety, and communication difficulties are common triggers.
Autistic children and teenagers are sometimes oversensitive to things like noise, crowds or temperature. They try to avoid sensory experiences.
Signs of High-Functioning Autism in Children
May appear more mature for their age and have above-average intelligence. A tendency to avoid eye contact. Trouble deviating from a routine or adapting to changes. Trouble making friends and maintaining social relationships or not “fitting in” with peers.
Autistic children are often strong in areas like visual, rule-based and interest-based thinking. A developmental assessment or an IQ test can identify autistic children's thinking and learning strengths. You can develop autistic children's skills by working with their strengths.
It is not only a stress-reliever, but it also has shown positive results in reducing panic attacks and depression. When an autistic person listens to music, they will find it calming and peaceful. Therefore, doctors also suggest using music therapy to improve their social behaviors.
Research Shows That Autistic Children Learn From Videos
They've discovered that videos, which can be viewed over and over again, are actually powerful tools for teaching skills, concepts, and even emotional responses.
Some common behavioral signs may include: Hypersensitivity to certain sights, sounds, smells, lights, textures, or touch from others. Obsessed with and repeating unusual activities. Difficulty transitioning from one activity to another.
Some developmental health professionals refer to PDD-NOS as “subthreshold autism." In other words, it's the diagnosis they use for someone who has some but not all characteristics of autism or who has relatively mild symptoms.