An African Sense of Folk Music as Essential Tool for Rehabilitation of Speech and Language Impairment in Children

Abstract

Speech and language impairment can be seen in both adults and children but, statistics have shown that speech and language impairments are more common among children. These impairments are initially noticeable between the ages of one to five or basically, preschool age. While it is true that some cases of speech and language impairment in children are clinically dependent, some others can be resolved without drugs. Systematic application of psycho, motor and emotional activities has in some cases proven to be remedial to speech and language impairment. Music is one of the human activities that possesses the power to permeate into psychics, and emotions and influence attitudinal or behavioural changes in human beings. The administration of appropriate music and musical activities to a client with some health challenges has resulted in the restoration of mental, emotional, social and physical well-being. This study, therefore, examines the potential of Nigerian folk music in enhancing both the development and treatment of speech and language fluency in children. The focus is on the role of children’s folk music; particularly, songs attached to folktales, play songs and dance in the correction of speech and language difficulties in children. Data for this study were gathered via interviews, participants, observational methods and a review of archival materials. The study suggests that children’s engagement in folk music; folktales playing songs and dance has proven to be a substitute or alternative to drugs for the rehabilitation of some children with a speech-language disorder. It was observed that the therapeutic power of folk music for children goes beyond speech and language treatment. Rather, it enhances mental, emotional, and physical stability and general well-being. The study recommends creating awareness in Nigerian communities to understand the therapeutic benefits of engaging children in folksongs activities even in this digital age. Trained music therapists and researchers are encouraged to pay attention to these cultural practices and the constructive curative powers inculcated in the traditional children’s playground and songs involved, to harness health benefits therein for humanity.