Music therapy in Early Years settings

MusicSpace works in a number of early years centres. Much of our work with under fives focuses on developing early communication skills and interaction, encouraging confidence and self-esteem. Early intervention can help to challenge patterns of behaviour before they become established. Music therapy allows children to ‘try things out’ in a setting in which there is no right or wrong. The therapist initially follows their lead, developing children's ability to 'have a go' and take the risks necessary for learning.

“David shows a keen interest and enthusiasm for the instruments and indeed the whole music therapy session, tending to ‘wake up’ at music time. He is much more aware of people and objects around him. He will share and is much better at taking turns.” David’s nursery nurse

Working with young children also offers the opportunity to work more closely with parents. This can include working with parent and child together in the session or meeting regularly to offer feedback. Supporting the interaction between a parent and child allows the relationship developed in the therapy sessions to be continued at home. A recent MusicSpace initiative has been to offer music therapy as a support group for parents of children with special needs. This has been well received by parents and offers a space to express, through music and words, their experience of having a child with special needs and to offer one another support.