Simply put, it is using music to achieve non-musical goals. Research shows that Music Therapy (MT) has the power to change lives by:

• Managing pain and discomfort
• Reducing anxiety and stress
• Facilitating socialization and self-expression
• Stimulating cognitive functioning which can enable speech/language and motor skills

Music Therapy (MT) is a well-established allied health profession similar to occupational therapy and physical therapy. These goals are addressed by a credentialed professional who has completed an approved music therapy program.

Quality learning and maximum participation occur when children are permitted to experience the joy of play. Music stimulates all of the senses, and involves the child at many levels. This "multimodal approach" facilitates several developmental skills. Specific benefits for children include the following:

• Music is highly motivating, yet it can also have a calming and relaxing effect.
• MT can help a child manage pain and stressful situations. MT may provide a distraction from the pain, discomfort, and anxiety often associated with some illnesses or physical disabilities.
• Enjoyable music activities are designed to be success-oriented and make children feel better about themselves.
• Music can encourage socialization, self-expression, communication, and motor development.
• Music can be used to motivate movements or structure exercises that are prescribed in physical rehabilitation.
• Rhythmic movement helps develop gross motor skills (mobility, agility, balance, coordination) as well as respiration patterns and muscular relaxation.
• Because the brain processes music in both hemispheres, music can stimulate cognitive functioning and may be used for remediation of some speech/language skills.

KidLinks has a long history of providing Music Therapy for children in need.

We are also proud to say that our support of MT higher education has inspired many young adults to make a direct impact by becoming music therapists.