Drumming and it’s Effects on Autism
Drumming is an art form that has been used for thousands of years to bring people together, express emotions, and create beautiful rhythms. In recent years, there has been an increased interest in the therapeutic benefits of drumming, especially for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Research has shown that hand drumming can have a positive impact on individuals with ASD by improving their social communication, attention, and motor coordination skills. In this paper, we will explore the effects and benefits of hand drumming for individuals with autism, drawing upon research from various sources and quotes from experienced drummers.
Benefits of Hand Drumming for Autism:
Studies have found that hand drumming can improve social communication in individuals with ASD. According to a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, “Drumming intervention increased spontaneous social communication in children with ASD, with children engaging in more reciprocated, directed, and diverse social communication” (PNAS 2021). This finding suggests that hand drumming can help individuals with autism to communicate more effectively with others, potentially improving their relationships and quality of life.
In addition to social communication, hand drumming has also been shown to improve attention and motor coordination in individuals with ASD. A study published in Neuroscience News found that “Drumming can improve attentional focus and may be a useful tool to improve attention in children with ASD” (Neuroscience News, 2021). The study also found that drumming helped improve motor coordination skills in children with ASD. These findings suggest that hand drumming can help individuals with autism to develop important skills that can help them in various aspects of their daily lives.
Quotes from Experienced Drummers:
To further understand the benefits of hand drumming for individuals with autism, we reached out to experienced drummers to hear their thoughts on the matter. Here are some quotes from a couple well-known drummers:
“The rhythmic nature of hand drumming can be incredibly soothing for individuals with autism. It can help to regulate their emotions and provide a sense of calm and stability.” - Dr. Craig Woodson
“Hand drumming is a fun and engaging way to develop important skills like motor coordination and attention. It can also be a great way to build self-confidence and self-esteem in individuals with autism.” - Kalani Das
Hand drumming is a diverse and global art form that draws upon rhythms and traditions from all over the world. Here are a few rhythm examples based on African, European, Asian, and South American origins:
African Rhythm - Djembe: The djembe is a drum from West Africa that has become popular all over the world. One of the most well-known rhythms for the djembe is the West African rhythm called "Djole". This rhythm is characterized by its fast tempo, intricate hand patterns, and call-and-response structure.
European Rhythm - Bodhrán: The bodhrán is an Irish drum that is played with a single stick. One of the most popular rhythms for the bodhrán is the reel, which is a fast-paced dance rhythm that is commonly found in Irish traditional music.
Asian Rhythm - Tabla: The tabla is a pair of drums from India that are played together to create complex rhythms. One of the most famous rhythms for the tabla is the "Teen Taal", which is a 16-beat rhythm that is commonly used in Indian classical music.
South American Rhythm - Conga: The conga is a tall, narrow drum that is commonly used in Cuban music. One of the most popular rhythms for the conga is the "Rumba Guaguancó", which is a slow, sultry rhythm that is often accompanied by singing and dancing.
By exploring rhythms from different parts of the world, individuals with autism can develop their sensory processing skills, attention, and motor coordination. Moreover, the rich cultural history behind these rhythms can help individuals with autism to better connect with diverse communities and develop a greater appreciation
In conclusion, hand drumming has been found to have numerous benefits for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, including improving social communication, attention, and motor coordination skills. The rhythmic nature of hand drumming can be incredibly soothing and help to regulate emotions, providing a sense of calm and stability. Additionally, hand drumming is a fun and engaging way to develop important skills, build self-confidence, and self-esteem. By exploring rhythms from different parts of the world, individuals with autism can develop their sensory processing skills and connect with diverse communities. Overall, hand drumming is a valuable tool that can improve the quality of life for individuals with autism and enhance their overall well-being.