Using Music to Motivate Movement in CIMT Therapy at Home

Music is a powerful tool for engaging children and motivating them to use their weaker hand or arm, making it an essential part of our Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) program. At Powerhouse Camp, we incorporate music classes into our daily routine to help children practice and reinforce the new skills they’ve gained. Fun, upbeat music can encourage movement, spark creativity, and help children stay engaged while working on increasing strength and coordination in their affected limb.

How Music Activities Promote Progress

Music isn’t just entertaining; it’s also a natural motivator. By incorporating rhythm-based activities at home, you can help your child continue to practice the skills they've developed during CIMT therapy. This type of playful activity keeps their therapy fresh and fun, while also providing opportunities for practice in a non-pressured environment.

For example, simple activities like banging rhythm sticks together, shaking maracas, or drumming on a hand drum can significantly increase your child’s use of their weaker hand. The rhythmic nature of these instruments encourages repeated movement, which supports the development of motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

Engaging with Toys: A Tip for Parents

When introducing new toys or activities to your child, take a moment to test them out yourself. Pay attention to where your hands naturally fall when you hold or play with the toy. This will help you understand the best way for your child to engage with it. For example, if you’re introducing a rhythm instrument like a drum, notice how your hands naturally grip it. When you give the toy to your child, encourage them to hold it in similar positions.

Some toys or grips may feel challenging at first, but with practice, your child will gradually improve. If maintaining a grip proves difficult, you can use a Coban wrap (a flexible bandage) to help secure the toy to their hand. This can assist them in achieving the correct grip while still working towards independence.

Recommended Music-Based Toys for Home

Here are some toys and instruments that can help reinforce the movement patterns encouraged in CIMT therapy:

Rhythm Sticks: Encourage bilateral hand use as your child taps, shakes, or drags the sticks together.
Hand Drums: Great for encouraging both hand and arm movement as they drum on the surface.
Maracas and Shaky Eggs: Ideal for shaking, which helps build grip strength and coordination.
Pots and Pans with Lids: A great homemade alternative—use a spoon as a drumstick to make music while encouraging your child to use both hands.
Remember to always check the age recommendations and safety guidelines when selecting toys for your child.