One of the really special things about this job is the
interactions we all get to have with very special children. We meet hundreds of incredible kids who are
struggling with disabilities each year, and every single one has made a very
real impact on the band and staff. We receive e-mails everyday from parents sharing their children's journeys with disability.
One of the greatest things about music is its universal
appeal – just about anyone can connect to the rituals of music. Even our hearing-impaired fans enjoy the
movement, vibration, and togetherness that come along with music. We meet children who have been struggling with
speech suddenly singing their hearts out to a song they connect to. We hear stories about children with eating
aversions being coaxed to take a bite when listening to music they enjoy. Our autistic fans’ parents regularly explain
how their child becomes more connected to their surroundings when a favorite
song or music video comes on. The list
goes on.
There is something mysterious and beautiful about the
community that comes along with music – it is a language that can bridge huge
gaps. There are absolutely no words to
describe seeing a group of children with various disabilities dancing together
and connecting to each other.
Neurodiversity and physical diversity is something we see everyday. It’s an honor to be a part of something that
helps bring all kinds of people together.
For the kids:
We all have
something unique about ourselves! Next time you're playing with a group of
kids, why not reach out to someone who might seem a little different to you? If
you're curious about someone, just ask them about themselves! Start a dance
party, draw, play a game, or just find ways to make each other giggle. Everyone
has something in common with you - make it your mission to find out what it
is!!
Do you have a story about music bringing people together? Leave us a comment!
Check out this episode of Soundcheck (radio show) about "Music and Autism".
For kids' music cd
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