Youth Music Makes Music Possible at Early Years Sessions
At Make Some Noise, we're buzzing to shout about our Upbeat Early Years music wellbeing sessions, made possible thanks to the Trailblazer funding from the National Foundation of Youth Music - and we're absolutely devastated that this funding is coming to an end but so pleased to showcase the legacy we’re leaving behind!
Upbeat Families was developed to support "hard to reach" and economically deprived parents, and was designed to bring music, sound, and - most importantly of all - fun to children either born just before or during the COVID pandemic (0-5).
Children develop rapidly in their earlier years, with the brain nearly doubling in size during the first year alone. Studies into the development of so-called 'COVID babies' have shown that those born during the pandemic may potentially be at risk of developing mentally, physically, and socially at a delayed rate. Other statistics from during and after the pandemic show additional risks to these children too, including a greater risk of economic deprivation, abuse, and more.
We knew it was crucial that we did our absolute best to reach these babies and toddlers and offer what support we could, but we were only able to do it with the help of Youth Music.
Their support enabled our fantastic musicians, skilled in early years delivery to dedicate their time and music prowess to provide multiple music wellbeing sessions throughout the year across specific areas in Stafford, Staffordshire – home to the Make Some Noise offices.
The impact these sessions had on the children (and parents/carers!) is plain to see, and we're so sad that they're coming to an end! However, as part of this funding, we also provided both the children and their parents/carers with a Make Some Noise musical gift bag, containing a copy of our unique Upbeat Early Years music book, and everything needed to carrying making music at home with confidence!
These sessions were all about introducing babies, toddlers and their parents to the power of music, and there's no such thing as starting too early.
There's a whole host of evidence showing that music is incredibly beneficial to young people, enabling brain development, improving social skills, bettering emotional regulation, happiness, self esteem, and even more besides!
We at Make Some Noise would love to continue running these sessions and guaranteeing that children most at risk of being left behind get access to the benefits of music and more. However, to do this, we need the continued support of fantastic funders like the National Foundation of Youth Music.
For those living in and around Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent and are looking to get involved with Make Some Noise, visit make-some-noise.com to find out more about how you can help, participate or join our team!
