Stefano Stories: March is Child Life month and Music Therapy

March is Child Life month and Music Therapy Month. I don’t need to remind you that being a kid in hospital can be tough.

That’s why I’m so grateful we have the very special Child Life team and music therapists to help kids and their families at HSC Children’s.

All year long they provide purposeful and fun opportunities for distraction and play so kids can be kids while in hospital.

Child Life specialists are experts in childhood development. Programming includes a library, Children’s Hospital Television (CHTV), special holiday celebrations and of course, play. Technology is a big part of it too and we think it’s fantastic that this program normalizes children’s experiences in the hospital by giving something that’s familiar to them like video games, movies, tablets and more. Believe it or not, video games can also help kids with their physical rehabilitation.

Music therapy also offers something very special to kids at Manitoba’s only children’s hospital. Through the program kids can play instruments like drums and guitars or simply listen to one of the music therapists. The program brings the healing power of music to children in need of treatment and care. It truly is wonderful.

The program is graciously supported by donors like Michael Nesbitt. He too believes music therapy in Children’s Hospital can be a source of comfort, healing and stimulation that can help a child during a difficult situation. We’re grateful for his support.

This year the Children’s Hospital Book Market celebrates its 65^th anniversary! The beloved event relies 100 per cent on volunteers who help collect and sort donated books before each Book Market. It then relies on volunteers to pack up and deliver books to the sale. Equally important, at the sale we also need volunteers to manage the many tables, help buyers find their perfect read and ring through purchases. Do you have time to help? If so, please inquire about volunteering opportunities by emailing the event organizers at bookmkt@mymts.net.

And, don’t forget, the 65^th Anniversary Book Market sale is at St. Vital Centre from Friday April 25 to Sunday, April 27!