Efficacy of Therapeutic Recreation-Based Drumtastic® and Kid Yoga Rocks in an Early Childhood Public School Setting

Authors

  • Lyn Gorbett Litchke Texas State University
  • Trason Willemin CTRS, Caliber Therapies
  • Allison Willemin Assistant Director of Secondary Curriculum and Literacy, Seguin Independent School District
  • Carrie Ekins Owner Drums Alive Drumtastic
  • Dean P. Owens Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/TRJ-2021-V55-I1-10128

Keywords:

Autism spectrum disorder, drumming, recreational therapy, schools, yoga

Abstract

The intent of this study was to compare drumming and yoga to regular classroom physical activity in a school setting. Twenty-nine early childhood students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) engaged in 5-weeks of TR led Kid Yoga Rocks (KYR; n = 10), Drumtastic ® (DR; n = 11), or Classroom/recess control group (CR; n = 8). Statistical analysis revealed significant positive changes pre-post in cognition (p < .001) and mood/fun (p =.003) within DR and KYR groups. Significant positive affect change resulted in DR and KYR vs. CR (p < .001); though no difference between DR and KYR. No significant change in socialization with others pre-post for all three groups. However, near significant between groups change for personal relationships for KYR and DR vs. CR which showed DR significantly better (p = .023). Thus, TR led evidence-based practice in schools as a related service can benefit children with ASD including problem solving, memory, relationship building, and expression of positive emotion. Implications for TR practice in school settings and further research on the effects of yoga and drumming are warrented as a result of this study. 

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Author Biographies

Lyn Gorbett Litchke, Texas State University

Assitant Professor, Dept of Health and Human Performance

Texas State University-San Marcos

Trason Willemin, CTRS, Caliber Therapies

Trason Willemin is a retired Chief Warrant Officer 3 (CW3) from the US Army. He is a graduate of Embry Riddle Aeronautical University with a BS in Aeronautics and Texas State University with a MSRLS-TR. Currently, he is a doctoral student at Sam Houston State University in the Developmental Education Administration program. He is a Drumtastic® instructor.

Allison Willemin, Assistant Director of Secondary Curriculum and Literacy, Seguin Independent School District

Allison Willemin has worked in education for 17 years as a teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, and district administrator with experience in Michigan, North Carolina, and Texas. Allison earned her BS in Elementary Education from Oakland University and MSA from UNC – Pembroke. Allison earned her Educational Doctorate EdD from Concordia University – Portland.

Carrie Ekins, Owner Drums Alive Drumtastic

Carrie Ekins is Creator and Founder of Drums Alive Inc. REMO Artist (2014). Doctoral Candidate at the University of Chemnitz, Germany. Recipient of the International Dance Exercise Association Program Director of the Year (2012); and, East Coast Alliance Best International Presenter, Most Innovative and Creative Programming Director (2010).

Dean P. Owens, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Dean P. Owens, M.A.; Professor, ERAU; B.S., BYU; Master Trainer, Drums Alive; 30 Year Pilot (USAF); Pilot (United Air Lines); Multiple Awards: ERAU Faculty Member of the Year, USAF Pilot of the Year, USAF Officer of the Year; Author: Effects Of A Drums Alive® Kids Beats Intervention On Motor Skills And Behavior In Children With Intellectual Disabilities.

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Published

2021-03-03

Issue

Vol. 55 No. 1 (2021)

Section

Quantitative Papers

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