Ian Franklin

In music therapy, music becomes more than sound—it becomes a pathway to balance, connection, and growth. 🌱

We have all experienced the power of a song. 🎵
But when we use music as an intentional tool for growth, a song becomes much more. In a therapeutic setting, music can…

➡️Supports regulation of over-and under-responsive sensory systems
➡️Uses rhythm and predictable patterns to create a sense of safety
➡️Encourages motor coordination through movement and beat
➡️Enhances emotional expression in a non-verbal, low-pressure way
➡️Improves focus and attention through structured musical activities
➡️Strengthens social skills with shared music-making experiences
➡️Provides calming or alerting input based on individual sensory needs

For clients that have had limited success with other modalities, music can be a key to creating powerful shifts in cognitive and behavioral health, and for building self-esteem. 🥁

kidstherapy powerofmusic

Word has been getting out about my Beats and Breath Bootcamps! These classes are intended to be accessible to anyone who is curious about Reichian breathwork and is interested in more self expression!
🪘
We combine breathing with percussion - tapping into our primal energy, the rhythm of the body, and the pulse of life force. The drum beat allows your body to:

➡️Relax
➡️Drop in
➡️Find your flow
➡️Let it all go!

I keep these groups nice and small so as many people can get individual attention and support as possible. If you are in the Meridian or Boise, ID area, check out the dates for my upcoming Breathwork Bootcamps (link in bio) and follow my page for more content! 🎵

Do you know why using percussion with kids on the autism spectrum or with other developmental differences is so widely supported in music therapy, special education, and occupational therapy ?

The reason is that percussion is so accessible, regulating, and expressive. 🥁🎵

There is no fine motor precision or pitch accuracy required! Anyone can succeed immediately by tapping, shaking, or striking, which reduces performance anxiety and frustration. 🪘

We can use percussion instruments to build gross motor skills such as :

✅ Large arm movements
✅ Bilateral coordination
✅ Fine motor skills such as finger tapping
✅ Cross-body movement
✅ Pattern recognition
✅ Sequencing and reinforcing cause-and-effect

Not least of all, percussion instruments provide predictable sensory input:

➡️Deep rhythmic input can be calming
➡️Repetition helps with emotional regulation
➡️Volume and tempo can be adjusted to meet sensory needs
➡️Steady beats often help organize attention and reduce dysregulation

The goal is not musical performance.
The goal is engagement, regulation, communication, and JOY! 😀🥁🎵

kidstherapy