Integrating parental support into music therapy sessions offers a multifaceted approach to enhancing therapeutic outcomes for children, especially those with neurological and developmental conditions. Parental involvement in the session is crucial in helping parents understand the therapeutic purpose of activities and support their child in practising skills across various settings. Research indicates that such participation can significantly enhance therapeutic outcomes by providing emotional support and reinforcing therapeutic goals at home(Tuomi et al., 2017; Haslbeck et al., 2021).

Parental support is crucial in this therapeutic process, as parents can provide information about their child’s behaviour, preferences, and challenges within a collaborative, neuro-affirming, and strength-based approach, helping therapists individualise interventions more effectively (Bunt & Stige, 2014).

Music therapy, which focuses on creative expression and emotional regulation, offers a unique way to involve children in therapeutic activities. When integrated with techniques and methods such as grading, chaining, and cognitive strategies, the advantages of music therapy can be significantly enhanced. In this presentation, the presenter will share techniques such as grading involving task analysis and adjusting the difficulty level of tasks to match the child’s abilities, ensuring they remain emotionally secure and regulated and maintain their engagement level (Baranek et al., 2007). Chaining breaks down complex tasks into manageable steps, allowing incremental progress and building confidence (Stahmer & Ingersoll, 2004). Cognitive strategies, such as visual aids, help children process and execute therapeutic activities more effectively (Kern & Aldridge, 2006). Incorporating these OT techniques into music therapy sessions provides a structured and predictable environment to support children with special needs, particularly those with sensory processing difficulties (Koegel & Koegel, 2006).