A few weeks ago, Sarah Bennington’s article which cited The Guardian’s report of ‘The Genius of Natural Childhood’ by Sally Goddard Blythe, stressed the importance that singing and music can have on the developmental process.

Song and voice work is also an integral part of Creative Expressive Therapy and is used in abundance by many practising therapists. In the most recent edition of the Dramatherapy Journal, Eran Natan states that using the voice- not necessarily verbally- can help individuals express themselves and form communication with others effectively. He places emphasis not on the quality of the voice but seeks the ‘authentic’ voice that can emerge in yawns, cries of joy or disappointment or laughter. He believes that by tuning in to this ‘authentic voice’- by listening, mimicking and exploring its capabilities, that self-confidence and identity will be promoted.

Song is also used extensively by Dramatherapist Paula Crimmens. She too feels that it is of little importance whether or not the voice is ‘good’ but more significant that it is used. She notes that many adults may feel self-conscious about singing out loud or in front of others. However, she believes that if these barriers can be overcome, the benefits to children can be greatly felt. Her main idea is that singing together can create and enforce the bond between child and adult. Even if language is not present, the song can be joined in by all, whether it is vocal noises, or the use of simple instruments. This is especially important in working with groups.
Using song and the ‘authentic’ voice also provides an easy link between members of multi-disciplinary teams. Songs can be used by dramatherapists and speech & language therapists alike- a bridge that serves to collaborate different skills and objectives. Lastly, many children find this way of working extremely fun which is a hugely beneficial part of the creative process.

Katy Tozer, June 2011

Written on behalf of Integrated Treatment Services. ITS is a private Speech and Language Therapy service based in Leicestershire and the East Midlands. It specialises in providing highly-skilled Speech and Language Therapists, but also associates with other therapeutic professionals, including Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Psychologists and Arts Therapists.


Related Content