Families of children and young people who have, or may have, a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and Autistic Spectrum Condition (ASC) are invited to a fun, musical exploration session on Monday 24 October from 10am – 2pm at Music House.
Having previously collaborated with Sunshine and Smiles Leeds Down Syndrome Network, we are delighted to be working with Ailith Harley-Roberts, Service Manager, from the Network to see how, as a music charity focused on working with disability organisations, we can assist the Network’s beneficiaries to access music and singing.
A dual diagnosis can be daunting and isolation for families!
At a meeting in spring, Ailith told us the need to offer support, help and signposting was evidenced as outcomes of some wide ranging consultation work that was undertaken last year. She said:
“We know we need to offer more opportunities and support for families who have a child or young person with Down syndrome and Autism or those who are wondering whether this may be the case.”
We felt this was an area that we could join forces and help with! And we are doing just that!
Monday’s drop-in will welcome all families and their children who have a dual diagnosis, who are in the assessment process or are just wondering if their child or young person may also have ASC.
A variety of spaces will be facilitated by musicians so that attendees can have a go, explore or simply observe a range of instruments including percussion, piano, guitar and, for the singers…call and response.
Rooms will include:
- Singing Room – Teacher: Leroy Johnson
- Piano Room – Teacher: Sean Smith
- Percussion Room – Facilitator: Dagmar FitzPatrick
- Guitar Room – Teacher: Huw Edwards
Award winning Made with Music, who regularly work with Sunshine & Smiles will also be getting involved on the day.
There will all be a Quiet space where families can chat with the Sunshine & Smiles team will help identify the areas of ongoing support that are needed!
Funding is making it all possible
Thanks to the generosity of both Leeds Community Foundation and The Ann Maguire Arts Education Fund who have provided grant funding, the musical exploration session can be offered free of charge to families. This preliminary exploration will help inform ongoing support and activities that families would value!
Crash! Bang! Twang! is specifically for children and young people with Down syndrome and Autism. Families should book via this link https://bookwhen.com/sunshineevents where more information can also be found.
Music House and Sunshine & Smiles can then begin to develop a project around music to stimulate and build confidence.
We can’t wait to see how working together organically grows. We will keep you posted on the project as it develops.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.