Kids, Music 'n' Autism

Dorita S. Berger is a concert pianist, an educator and a Board Certified music therapist with over 20 years of clinical experience in sensorimotor music-based treatment for autism spectrum and neurophysiologic-related diagnoses in children and adults. She conducts workshops and lectures on the role of music in science and medicine and continues to provide consultations and music therapy services, in addition to researching the role of music in human adaptation. Dorita resides in Durham, North Carolina, USA and is the author of Music Therapy, Sensory Integration and the Autistic Child, Eurhythmics for Autism and Other Neurophysiologic Diagnoses and co-author of The Music Effect: Music Physiology and Clinical Applications, also published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

As the parent of a teen with autism, I can say first-hand how important music has been in his life, from learning to speak to now socializing in the marching band. This book has practical tips on how to choose an instrument, find a teacher, and even keep up with practice - a must-read for anyone who wishes to expose their child to the benefits of music.

• Overture: About the Book: A Letter to Parents. Part One: Music is Important for the Developing Child. 1. How and Why to Think 'Beyond the Spectrum'. 2. The Sense-ability of The Musical Brain. 3. Music for All Ages and Functions. Part Two: Providing Music in a Child's Life. 4. Music Lessons, Music Therapy, or Both? 5. What Instrument Should I Choose For My Child? 6. Lessons, Practice and Penalties. 7. Taking Your Child to a Concert. Part Three. Additional Considerations. 8. Music and Exceptional Needs. 9. Useful Information and Helpful Resources. Finale.