Book Review - Music Therapy, Sensory Integration and the Autistic Child

Music Therapy, Sensory Integration and the Autistic Child

Marilyn Arons, President & CEO

MAC enthusiastically recommends Music Therapy, Sensory Integration and the Autistic Child by Dorita S. Berger, Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2002. Though focusing on the importance of music therapy for autistic children, the importance of the 236- page book extends well beyond the world of autism. It presents a readable explanation about how specific musical elements address sensory integration needs. With a foreward by Donna Williams, Ms. Berger carefully explains basic sensory systems, hearing and listening, and how music therapy connects many of the body’s systems and skills. In addition, she provides case studies and examples of music therapy goals and objectives that could be incorporated into any preschool or kindergarten program or class, or activities with older children. These include specific ways to handle physiologic needs, behavioral and psycho-emotional needs, and mental, cognitive and intellectual needs. She emphasizes that music therapy cannot take the place of occupational therapy, but greatly benefits children with vestibular and proprioceptive needs. For parents who are looking for ways to help their children through the use of music, this book is a most helpful resource. It is also useful for school personnel who continue to dispute the existence of sensory integration.