Does it seem interesting that a post about the library starts with the phrase “Rockin’ Out?”

Typically you think about being very, very quiet in the library, but with the music therapy programs offered through Wholesome Harmonies, we are anything but quiet!

Since 2010, I’ve been facilitating music therapy programs at Miami-Dade Public Library System. It all started with a simple phone call and has expanded into offerings for babies, toddlers and children of all abilities (including those with special needs).

Music Therapists & Educators, if you are interested in a consultation about how to start library programs in your area, visit our Consultation Page here.

These are the programs we currently offer at the library:

Rockin’ & Readin’ is a program I created to allow children of all abilities, including those with special needs, to participate in music therapy activities. These sessions target developmental goals and promote literacy through singable stories.

We hold sessions once a month at various library locations throughout the county. Each session includes goal-oriented music therapy experiences centered around a theme (usually based on a holiday or season). And of course, because we’re at the library, each session includes at least one singable story to target literacy skills.

Our last Rockin’ & Readin’ session for this school year is Saturday, June 13, 2015 from 10:30-11:00am at Hialeah Gardens Library.

Baby Rock is a music group for babies (ages 0-18 months) and their caregivers; Toddler Rock is a music group for toddlers (ages 18 months – 3 years) and their caregivers.

In both groups we utilize developmentally appropriate songs and activities to encourage interaction between caregivers and their little ones and to work on basic developmental skills. (We used this Spanish finger play last month and it was a hit!)

During these music groups, babies and toddlers will explore instruments, scarves, shakers, singing, and movement to music to work on growth in the areas of social, communication, physical, and emotional development. All songs are original and live musical accompaniment is provided on guitar, keyboard, and omnichord. It’s always a rockin’ time!

We are pleased to announce our 2015 summer offerings of Baby & Toddler Rock (combined), which will take place at the Miami Beach Library on the following dates from 10:30-11:00am:

Wednesday, June 10
Wednesday, June 24
Wednesday, July 1
Wednesday, July 15

These programs are funded by the library and/or grants, so the public can attend for free. Offering these programs has been a fantastic way to introduce the community to music therapy and what we have to offer children and families through music.

The really exciting part is that the Brockway Memorial Library has contacted me because they are interested in offering Baby & Toddler Sessions at their library branch (which is not part of the Miami-Dade County system).

I’ll keep you posted on upcoming session dates!