Session: Sept 12th – Oct 24th (7wks)
Session: Stay Tuned for future Dates
Day: Tuesday’s
Age/Time: 2-3yrs (9-945am)
Age/Time: 2-3yrs (10-1045am)
Age/Time: 4-5 (11-1145am)
Instructor: Gabrielle Unser
Certified Music Therapist, MTA, BMT, MT-BC
Cost: $105/series of 7 weeks
This program aims to provide children with a nurturing and stimulating environment where they can explore the world of music, engage in physical movement, and interact with their peers. By incorporating songs, instruments, and activities that encourage turn-taking, self-regulation, and self-expression, the program promotes holistic development.
Learning Objectives:
● To foster connection between a child and their adult
● To develop emotional regulation
● To increase social skills such as turn taking, respecting each other’s bodies, etc
● To have fun together!
● To increase social connection with other families
Session Structure: The program will be divided into age-specific group sessions: 2-3, and 4-5 with a possibility to grow to other age groupings. Each session will be held once a week and will last for approximately 45min. Parent or caregiver participation is required to ensure the child’s comfort and maximize the therapeutic benefits of the sessions.
Activities and Benefits: During the sessions, participants will have the opportunity to engage in various activities, including singing, moving, dancing, and exploring different musical instruments. These activities are carefully designed to enhance sensory skills, promote emotional development, and improve social interaction among the children. The presence of a certified music therapist ensures that each session is tailored to the specific needs of the participants, allowing for personalized attention and support.
About your instructor: Gabrielle was raised within the unceded territories of kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem First Nation). She thanks the kʷikʷəƛ̓əm who continue to live on these lands and care for them, along with the waters and all that is above and below. She, her husband and their daughter, Ellie have officially moved to Brentwood Bay in search of that island lifestyle.
Having obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy from Capilano University in September 2021, Gabrielle possesses a strong educational foundation in her field. Prior to her graduation, she completed a 1000 hour pre-professional practicum within the Delta School District, where she discovered a profound passion for working with children and youth, both neurodiverse and neurotypical alike. Throughout the ongoing pandemic, Gabrielle has acquired valuable experience in delivering music therapy through online Telehealth sessions, as well as in-person sessions.
Gabrielle’s primary instrument of expertise is the baritone ukulele, although her affinity for music has been evident since her early years. She embarked on her musical journey at the age of six, beginning her piano lessons. She has experience in guitar, drums, xylophones and a variety of other instruments.
Guided by a humanistic, play based, non-directive, and client-led approach, Gabrielle’s music therapy practice revolves around tailoring each session to suit the specific needs and desires of her clients. Emphasizing individuality and personal expression, her sessions encompass an array of instrument explorations, such as percussive instruments, xylophones, and various others and sensory play. Within Gabrielle’s music therapy sessions, there exists no concept of right or wrong—rather, a supportive environment that encourages creative freedom.
When the pandemic hit, Gabrielle noted a huge loss of community. She created the Music and Movement program to bring families and children together — to build community as well as address social-emotional goals. Since her move from the mainland, she decided to bring her programs with her in the hopes to foster them within her new community.
During her leisure time, Gabrielle enjoys the company of her daughter and husband, engaging in activities such as board games and pickleball and nurturing her passion for songwriting.
