Music loves autism

It may be the saxophone, the piano, or the recorder; in this well-received educational program by the Onassis Foundation, music becomes a ‘language of communication’, over and above the spoken and written word, as groups of children from within and outside the spectrum of autism come into contact with sounds and musical instruments.

The program, which has been run for seven years in Athens and five in other parts of Greece, aims to promote equal access to learning and play.

The workshop includes specially designed musical activities that are adapted to the particular needs and skills of the children taking part. Kids come into creative contact with musical sounds and get to know the various musical instruments. Music is thus used as a means for communication and interaction, with special emphasis given to the development of non-verbal communication skills.

The aim is for kids belonging to the broad spectrum of autism to get an experience of teamwork and become part of a team, thus giving free rein to their creativity.