A beloved music program for children with disabilities is going online to help improve the mental and emotional well-being of these young people.
The Guelph Young Music Centre will run the program for 20 weeks focusing on songs that are familiar to the children, encouraging them to focus on vocalization and instrumentation.
The program is led by registered music therapist and psychotherapist, Katie Hampton. She says it aims to provide children with the chance to connect with others.
“I think the social aspect is very important to them,” said Hampton, “Because some of them have either come from group homes, or they go to school, but they're not able to find a lot of extracurriculars that are adapted to them.”
Starting in January 2021, Hampton will meet once a week with the children to sing along, or play instruments, with songs they know. To attend the sessions, Hampton explains that all participants need is access to Zoom or an Internet connection.
“It’s pretty user friendly,” she said about her classes, “Some people are completely non-verbal, some have limited verbal skills and some can sing the whole song, so I adapt it and ask people to do what they can.”
Hampton said some of her students have been coming to her for a number of years and enjoy being a part of the program.
“One young man, his parents told me his verbal skills have increased a lot since he has been doing some of the familiar songs," she said, “Another young student, he's been there for years and years, but he loves being a part of the group and all of the loud noises."
“It’s a really fun program, and I really try to put the emphasis on fun.”
Gabrielle Currie-Ziegler, the executive director of GYMC, said it was ‘critical’ to bring the program to these children during the pandemic as it is harder for them to express their fears the same way adults do, but still feel it.
On top of that, Ziegler adds that some are not able to comprehend everything that is happening, which leads them to feel isolated and anxious.
“As we accommodate, as we try to adjust, as we adapt, it is critical that we do not leave these children behind.” said Ziegler,
With their other programs being successfully offered in an online format, Ziegler is confident that the ‘semi-normalcy’ of the program will help those who need it.
“If they see some of the other children, they then understand ‘We’re all in this together,’” she said. “So we’re going to do it via Zoom until we can bring them back into the studios.”
For those who are thinking of joining the program, Ziegler said they can try a session for free before registering and seek financial support.
“Thanks to the Children’s Foundation, but anybody who needs assistance, can reach out to the Children’s Foundation for funds.” she said.
To learn more, you can go to gymc.ca or contact the centre in 2021 at 519-837-1119.
