CATCH

 

Everyone enjoys music. But for children with special needs, music can change their lives, helping them to move, speak, think, and socialize more easily.

The East Boston Neighborhood Health Center recently brought music into the lives of the children in CATCH (Children’s Access to Coordinated Health Care), the special care program for children with complex medical issues.

CATCH provides innovative recreational and therapeutic services for children’s special needs. Recently, patients, parents, and siblings enjoyed a Music Therapy Program, arranged by Lourdes Snyder, the health center’s Community Resources Coordinator. Over 16 families and 18 children participated in the program! Led by an experienced music therapist trained at the Community Music Center of Boston, children played a variety of unusual musical instruments from around the world, singing and dancing and interacting with each other.

Like occupational and physical therapy, musical therapy helps to develop behavioral, physical, and language skills. For children with disabilities, including autism, musical experiences can open their ability to communicate with others. The structure and pleasure of music encourage children to express themselves, respond to others, and take pride in their achievement.

Music therapy helps children and adults with disabilities as it:

• Relaxes and relieves stress
• Reduces pain
• Encourages emotional expression
• Improves memory
• Enhances communication
• Strengthens physical skills

To learn more about the East Boston Neighborhood Health Center’s CATCH program, contact us.