Step into Harmony: Introducing Our Latest Music and Movement Program
From the moment the music started playing, it was clear that something magical was happening in the Playhouse. Each session was a symphony of movement and melody, as babies and caregivers explored foundational movements for pre-walkers. From gentle stretches to playful experiences, every activity was designed to engage the senses, stimulate development, and promote bonding between caregivers and babies. Yet, amidst the laughter and shared moments, the integration of music therapy and recreational therapy techniques provided a wealth of benefits for our participants.
In devising this program, Erin and Mary identified a gap in programming for this particular age bracket. Their aim was to incorporate the movements from our GiGiFIT Infant program into a musical framework. While the movements in our GiGiFIT Infant program offer numerous benefits, such as enhancing strength, promoting cross-crawl patterns, strengthening core muscles, and improving visual tracking, there was still room for enhancement. Studies have demonstrated that exposure to music in infancy can boost cognitive abilities, foster language development, aid in emotional regulation, facilitate bonding, improve gross motor coordination, and encourage social interaction. With this in mind, why not merge the purposeful movements from our physical therapy-focused program with music?
The true magic of the Music and Movement class was in the connections created between our families. Caregivers came together to share stories, support one another, and celebrate their little ones. Each week, these parents connected and grew together. Even after the program ended, families stayed to talk, eat, and play at the Playhouse.
We asked the caregivers to share what they gained from this class, and Rory’s mom, Ashley, perfectly summed up our “why” in creating this program. Ashley shares:
“We are so grateful to have been a part of GiGi’s first official Music and Movement program with our son Rory. From the moment my husband and I stepped foot into the doors of GiGi’s we knew this was going to be a special place. Mary and Erin were so full of joy and excitement for this program, and they shined and showed up every week.
Since the birth of our son, he has had weekly PT and OT visits. When we started this group, I had zero expectations, but I have to say I was really surprised by Rory’s growth. I have seen more growth in Rory’s abilities to roll over, touch his toes, hold weight on his feet, and so much more. I share this because I’ve personally witnessed more growth from our son in the past six weeks from participating in this program than I have with his regularly scheduled PT and OT visits.
I’ve also really enjoyed being a part of a group of parents where all our children are around the same age (birth to one year). This has been helpful in developing unique friendships and has also allowed me a space to share so much about Rory and his health. It makes a huge difference to have people around you who have similar experiences, all while navigating a new infant with different needs. It makes you feel less alone in the process. Not to mention having neurotypical children involved in the group made it feel so inclusive and special.
I can only hope this group of babies will stick together and continue to grow beautiful and wholesome friendships in the future…. “The future of GiGi’s”! I cannot WAIT for the group to start again and, as in the words of my 3-year-old, Thomas, the “whole family” gets to look forward to GiGi’s every week.”
Through the power of music and movement, these sweet babies blossomed before our eyes, gaining confidence, coordination, and a love of music. From improving motor skills to enhancing social interaction, the benefits of our Music and Movement program have been truly remarkable. As we look forward to the next session, we are filled with gratitude for the progress made, the memories created, the friendships formed, and the incredible journey shared.
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