Autism and music. A very brief summary.

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As you know, I have been interested in the relationship between Autism and music for a long time. I have found, over the years, that Autistic children respond to music. They enjoy listening to it, and are drawn to people who sing or play music. They also tend to be interested in musical instruments, and enjoy playing them. While doing research for my book this morning, I stumbled upon the article I'll attach. What interested me the most was a study showing that playing music led to reductions in what the article called "stress hormones" (probably cortisol), but that playing IMPROVISED (made up) music was especially powerful in increasing the release of oxytocin, the so-called "cuddle hormone." I could elaborate on my thoughts further, but we know that long articles are frowned upon on by some MyLot members. One thing I have noticed: communicating with Autistic kids through music DOES lead to greater spatial proximity, improved attachment, improved language development, demonstration of other skills, including math skills, and increased eye-contact. To quote the great Greg Brown, you can read it all in my new book. I will continue my practice of singing to Autistic kids and (when possible) encouraging them to play music.