Functionally oriented Music Therapy (FMT) as a method of improving children’s ability to function at school

Abstract: In a school system with fewer teachers, larger groups, and less resources, functionally oriented music therapy (FMT) could be a useful method of helping children function better at school.  In what way can FMT help improve children’s ability to deal with the challenges facing them at school?  During a project that lasted for 26 weeks, two children from a Swedish preschool class were offered individual FMT once a week.  The group as a whole was divided in two and offered group music (according to the Music in preparation for school (MUISC) programme) every second week.  There was an interview with the teacher, along with an assessment of function for the two individuals, at the beginning and at the end of the project.  The two individuals receiving regular FMT functioned better at school at the end of the project.  FMT could be an effective resource to help improve children’s ability to deal with the challenges facing them at school.