A Child's Song

A Child’s Song nurtures an appreciation for music while providing programs and education to share the developmental, healing, and social-emotional benefits of music for children and adults. Your donation gives a gift that lasts a lifetime. Thank you for changing lives with music!

"We believe passionately in the power of music to change the lives of all youth, enriching their education, and changing the way they engage with the world. We also believe that all children, regardless of their ability to pay, should have the opportunity for music exploration. The pandemic illuminated the deep divide that exists between arts education opportunities enjoyed by privileged youth (often white youth) versus the almost non-existent opportunities open to their less-financially privileged peers (often youth of color). Privileged youth had access to individual lessons or online instruction during the pandemic; students with fewer resources had almost no programming." - Sandy Taylor, Executive Director and Founder Of A Child's Song

Testimonials

“I have had the pleasure of participating and supporting Kristin’s (ACS instructor) drum circle at Sanctuary for the last 6 weeks and wanted to share what I have noticed. Clients at first were very timid, not engaged, and disinterested. Kristin’s beaming positive attitude and passion for music have become contagious. The clients, even the very shy ones, have become leaders in the drum circle. Kristin creates a drum circle that is also a safe space. Clients have come to the group escalated and in negative head spaces, but in just a few minutes their energy is uplifted. Please expand this program to our other locations! Our kids need this!” - Mary Beth Hietapelto, Shiloh House Independent Living Coach

"My son is 18 and has Down syndrome. His violin teacher is kind and adapts to whatever my son needs. He loves his lessons. They are the best price around and have worked with us regarding payment when things got tight. I appreciate A Child's Song very much." - bekahjoyfu

Donation Impact

Outreach to Empower At-Risk Youth

Jamie,* age 17, was the first one in the room, inspired to share the beats and loops he had created and mixed and excited to expand on them. Not of a song that can be found on the radio…yet. But one of many songs he crafted, armed with skills to shape his future into something more promising, more hopeful.

Just a few weeks ago, Jamie’s attitude was very different at his first group music session: arms crossed, a hoodie and a baseball cap pulled down low covering his face, angry and withdrawn. He cursed and refused to participate. One of his parents had been sent to jail, the other was absent from his life. Forced into adulthood at an early age, Jamie clung to the protective air of detachment and aggression.

He witnessed the other youth in the home reluctantly gather around the drums and play some familiar beats of a popular song. Now, he joins them, immersed in the group, their uncertainty and hesitation no longer rooted in hostility, but in the pride of creating something new and feeling safe in an environment that promoted exploration, collaboration, and respect. A focused determination.

Outreach to Strengthen Seniors' Golden Years

Mary*, age 83, asked who her visitors were, unable to recognize her son or grandkids.

Mary’s family felt sad and helpless as Alzheimer's blurred a lifetime of memories. They searched for a hint of remembrance of the people, places, and experiences she loved. One remnant of Mary’s past persisted.

When Mary sat at a piano, years of playing church hymns in her youth would flow through her fingers to the keys. As she played and sang to the music, her family watched with intense joy. At least for a few moments, Mary could experience her memories and connect with her family in the present.

Mission

A Child’s Song nurtures an appreciation for music while providing programs and education to share the developmental, healing, and social-emotional benefits of music for children and adults.

Background Statement

Charles and Sandy Taylor founded A Child’s Song (ACS) in 1999 in response to their community’s need for excellent musical training combined with evidence-based music programs designed to support youth who learn differently. Sandy’s background in child development and music education coupled with Charles’ work both as a musician and as a nontraditional instrument craftsperson gave this couple a unique perspective on music education. The Taylors’ commitment to family also affected the structure and direction of ACS. As parents of eight adopted children, grandparents of eight children (four adopted), and foster parents of more than 35 children (many with developmental and emotional challenges), the Taylors witnessed first-hand the profound effects of music and movement on brain development and cognitive function.