Listen and learn
Author: Donna McCollum
Magazine issue: Autumn 06
Page numbers: 4-6
Date: 28 August 2006
URL: http://www.speechmag.com/content/files/donnamccollum.pdf
Donna McCollum believes that most children with autism spectrum disorder show some form of auditory processing disorder, so auditory stimulation should be considered as part of such an individual’s treatment plan. The Listening Program (a ‘Music-Based Auditory Stimulation method’) offers one option. Donna – now a Certified Provider - describes how her initial scepticism turned to interest. Background information about The Listening Program is followed by case story featuring Aodhan, a 7 year old boy with autism. Although he had made good progress with speech and language therapy and occupation therapy, by 6 years he still found it difficult to remain focused on (particularly auditory) tasks and had some abnormal responses to sensory input. The Listening Program was introduced with no other therapy. Improvements are described in a range of areas such as self-regulation, ability to concentrate and reduced hypersensitivity to noise.
