In recent years, many alternative or complementary therapies have evolved with time e.g. Art, Music, Group, and Aquatic Therapy. These therapies promote communication, self-exploration, emotional growth, sensory integration, helps in venting out emotions and feelings, improve social and interaction skills. These therapies also improve eye contact and self-confidence.
Art:
-Art-based therapy is an excellent treatment for autism because it is inherently reinforcing for the children. It is a great source of enjoyment while at the same time mitigates the symptoms of the child.
-It is also a wonderful facilitator in forming connexion with peers, turn-taking, respecting differences, and developing social skills in an enjoyable manner.
Music:
-Music therapy improves mood and social interaction.
-It helps in working the upper body parts like hands, shoulders, wrist, forearms, and wrist and thus helps in coordination and relaxing the child.
-Children can better express their emotional states while listening to different kinds of music.
-Music helps in bringing down the hyperactivity of the child.
-Music helps in reducing social isolation and increases interest in external events.
Group:
-Group therapy fosters social communication and interaction. It provides children an opportunity to make social relations in a fun environment.
-It also helps in reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity.
-It improves imitation skills, teaches turn taking in play.
-Improves problem-solving and organizational skills.
Aquatic:
-Water immersion is beneficial for memory and cognition.
-Reduces anxiety, hyperactivity, stereotypical behavior and inappropriate emotional responses.
-Improves posture, coordination and body control.
-It helps Improve child’s attention span, concentration, impulse control, frustration tolerance and ability to follow instructions.