What Research tells us. As early as 1976, researchers found that percussion games improved social behaviors for children with cognitive developmental challenges. Since then, several professional publications have demonstrated the positive effect of drumming on social behaviors, grief, self-expression, self-esteem, group cohesion, coordination, and learning.
Why are drums useful as therapeutic tools? That’s an easy answer; anyone can drum, and everyone can participate. Drums accommodate all levels of interaction and provide a physical and sensory experience. Playmore Design™ Drum Tables can be played by multiple participants and their portability allows them to be incorporated into drum therapy anywhere they are needed.
What does drum therapy look like? Drum therapy takes many forms, including: drum play in a day-care facility; traditional drumming in a studio, guided interactive drumming in a church or social club; drum circles at the beach; musical improvisation at summer camps; clinical improvisation; and technique-oriented play in a hospital.
What are some benefits of drum therapy? Participants become part of a shared experience that provides a supportive and emotionally-safe environment. Depending on the group-leader’s skill and training can improve:
Social interaction. Participants join in a collaborative experience and learn how to: take turns, share, cooperate, contribute, and to rely on others in the group.
Communication Needs. Participants learn to take direction, to lead and to follow.
Motor Skills. Different techniques work on fine and/or gross motor skills.
Emotional Needs. The drum group becomes a safe place, where participants can share feelings. The physicality of drumming is a positive and constructive way to release energy; and can calm aggressive behavior
Cognitive Needs. Music has been shown to stimulate brain function. The drumming experience can improve an individual’s attention, impulse control, and decision-making skills.
For a short bibliography and to read more on this subject go tohttps://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/your-musical-self/201103/drumming-development-how-drumming-helps-children-special-needs).
This blog is based on the published article by Kimberly Sena Moore Ph.D. “Drumming for Development: How Drumming Helps Children with Special Needs” posted Mar 10, 2011 on www.psychologytoday.com
Thanks for reading, Kim Maines Ph.D.