Teddy’s story

Music therapy offered an uplifting space where Teddy could participate fully

Teddy is 3 years old. He lives with a genetic condition called TUBA1A – a condition affecting his brain development. It is so rare, that there were only around 200 cases worldwide in 2020. Music therapy has been transformative for Teddy since he began sessions at one years old, unlocking new skills and his love of music. Read below as his mum Laura and his ‘Gigi’ (grandparent, Laura’s mum) share how sessions have helped both Teddy and his family.

“We don’t really know much about what Teddy’s future looks like in terms of walking and talking,” said his mum Laura, “But he is the happiest boy and he’s very determined!” 

Teddy’s mum tried taking him to play and toddler groups. But they weren’t inclusive places for Teddy, and he was often unable to take part. “Being in that setting where there’s all these other kids doing normal things, crawling, walking, talking, communicating when your child doesn’t – it was not a great environment for me. For me to be watching all these other kids when Teddy was sitting there not interacting was really hard.”  

We didn’t find anything that was inclusive that he could attend until music therapy.

Laura, Teddy’s mum

But then came a turning point for Teddy and his family, when – at the age of one – they discovered Music Space, an innovative project combining Music Therapy and Occupational Therapy to promote all aspects of children’s development.  He was having fun, interacting and connecting with his therapists. “I remember the first session we ever went to –  I didn’t realize it would happen so quickly!… It was just so nice to just see him really, really enjoy himself,” said Laura.

Given that opportunity to be invited to these sessions, it gives you hope.

Teddy’s Gigi (Grandparent, Laura’s mum)

From his very first Music Space session, Teddy could participate fully. He was connecting with his therapists, who were able to tune into his musical ideas and centre sessions around him.

Teddy’s family watched his confidence grow as he tried out new instruments. His Gigi shared, “I’ve loved all the sessions that I’ve been able to go and see him in. How he can hold the drumsticks now, how he can hit a cymbal, how he can play the keyboard. It’s amazing. Absolutely, amazing.”

It’s been incredible watching what music has brought out of him.

Laura, Teddy’s mum

Music Space sessions helped Teddy unlock his love of music and helped him to build new skills. “He really took in the songs, the rhythm and the actions that go along – and is still doing that today – he loves music so much, and playing with his toy instruments at home after these sessions,” said Laura. 

Now, music is something that Teddy and his family enjoy together. From playing with his toy instruments at home, to spending time with his Gigi, singing and clapping along to songs.  

Teddy attended his music therapy sessions at Music Space, an Early Years project in partnership with Craighalbert Centre. Read more about the project here.

Watch Teddy participate in music therapy

Video credits: Rhiannon Neale