Quality learning and maximum participation occur when children are permitted to experience the joy of play. The medium of music therapy allows this play to occur naturally and frequently. Music is highly motivating, yet it can also have a calming and relaxing effect. Enjoyable music activities are designed to be success-oriented and make children feel better about themselves. Music therapy can help a child manage pain and stressful situations.
Music can encourage socialization, self-expression, communication and motor development.
Because the brain processes music in both hemispheres, music can stimulate cognitive functioning and may be used for remediation of some speech and language skills. Information from the American Music Therapy Association.