Non Traditional Listening Therapy For Autistic Children

By Amy Watson


When it comes to autistic children, there are a lot of options when it comes to different types of therapies and programs. In some cases, a Non traditional listening therapy can of assistance. While there are different programs of this nature, some are better than others.

Most often, these type therapies fall under the umbrella of auditory training programs. Two of the most popular of these methods are Tomatis and Somonas sound therapies. While becoming more popular, there has been very little research as to the effectiveness of either program.

In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics claim these therapies have no merit and at times can do more harm than good. At the same time, there are parents, teachers and therapists whom have seen positive results. As such, it is up to parents and professionals to determine whether or not these type programs could be of benefit to a child based on overall health and other factors.

Some children respond well to listening therapies while others need more hands-on activities. For example, while an otherwise well adjusted child might do well with sound therapy, a child with ADHD may actually have difficulties sitting and listening for an extended period of time. As such, it is important that parents make a decision based on the overall health and well being of the child when it comes to these type programs.

Other questions people have is if these programs are prohibitively expensive, or if all autistic children have access to the material. In addition, a number of parents want to see evidence that the programs and therapies have worked for other autistic children in the past. In some cases, therapists will try to build this type therapy into ongoing sessions and attempt to sell parents a number of expensive associated products.

Before enrolling a child in this type therapy, it is often advised that parents obtain a second opinion. Whereas, if the child is undergoing medical treatment, it is important to check with the primary health care provider as to whether the therapy may be appropriate considering other health issues.

In some cases, therapists may try to incorporate this type therapy into an existing program. When this is the case, it is important the therapist discuss the cost, and necessary equipment with parents before doing so. For, while some parents can afford the extra cost over the price of the existing therapies, there are others whom can not afford to acquire the products necessary for a program of this nature to be successful.

Programs which do pose harm to parents, therapists and children can do so in different ways. Whether by making false promises related to hopes and dreams that a child may be healed, or creating an environment in which a child can not progress with learning abilities, these are just a few dangerous aspects which exist in a number of these type programs.




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