Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop an interdisciplinary, neuroscience-informed music therapy intervention program targeting gait atypicalities in preschool aged children, 3-5 years old, diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). While not currently a diagnostic feature of ASD, recent research is showing that gait atypicalities are present in 60 to 100% of autistic children. Given the significant impact of gait atypicalities on quality of life, including joint pain and fatigue, it is an important area to be targeted for early intervention, and given that music processing abilities remain intact, it seems that music therapy intervention may be an ideal approach. Some research on the gait atypicalities in ASD is beginning to come out in the fields of physical and occupational therapies but remains to be explored in the context of music therapy. This study, following the initial steps of intervention research design as outlined by Fraser, Richman, Galinsky, and Day (2009), provides guidelines for implementing a music therapy intervention program targeting gait atypicalities in autistic children, including important considerations to accommodate a younger age group. The intervention program is organized into four phases: Assessment and evaluation, deconstruction of gait and relearning of independent movements, reintegration into standard walking pattern, as well as reassessment and maintenance. Potential implications for practice and areas for future research are also discussed.