Currently, part of the Autism-CHIME (CHildren's Improvisational Music Therapy Evaluation) study, which tests whether improvisational music therapy is helpful for autistic children aged 7-11 years old. Improvisational music therapy is one style of music therapy, in which a therapist and a child spontaneously co-create music together using singing, playing and movement, and assumes no prior experience with playing an instrument. This can create engaging opportunities for interactions and for children to express themselves. Previous research suggests that this kind of music therapy may be particularly useful for autistic children. We will test scientifically if improvisational music therapy helps autistic children to improve their social and communication skills, and their emotional wellbeing.
