Q+A
Answers to common questions are here. Feel free to contact us for additional information.
How I get services for my child?
Our services are accessible for children with qualifying diagnosis or developmental delay in Pennsylvania through Early Intervention (Infant and Toddler) Programs in Cumberland, Perry, and Dauphin Counties. Contact your local Early Intervention (Infant/Toddler) program and request a developmental evaluation. Then request Special Instruction/Music Therapy with Rhythm & Bloom Therapy.
What is the cost?
Our services are free to you through your county Early Intervention program.
What are the goals of Special Instruction in Early Intervention?
Special Instruction helps families address a wide range of developmental needs including cognition, communication, social-emotional skills, adaptive behaviors, and behavior regulation. The goal is to help the child grow by coaching caregivers to integrate targeted strategies into daily activities. Special Instructors bring expertise in child development and help families understand how to create learning moments during normal routines like play, dressing, or mealtime.
What role does music therapy play in early intervention?
Developmental Music Therapy uses the natural appeal of music to help children meet developmental goals. Board-certified music therapists design musical activities that support areas like communication, motor skills, emotional regulation, and cognitive growth. The focus isn’t on teaching music, but using music as a highly engaging tool to support development in ways that are fun and motivating for young children.
How can music be integrated into a family’s routine?
Music is a powerful, flexible tool that can be used during many daily activities. Music therapists might suggest songs to support transitions like clean-up time or getting dressed. They may teach caregivers how to use rhythmic or melodic activities to encourage language, movement, or emotional regulation. Because music is so accessible, it becomes a joyful and sustainable part of everyday life.
What developmental areas can music therapy support?
Music therapy supports many developmental domains: speech and communication (through vocalizations, songs), motor skills (through movement and playing instruments), emotional regulation (with calming or expressive music), social engagement (with turn-taking or group play), and cognitive functions (like memory and sequencing). The structure and rhythm of music can make learning more predictable and enjoyable for children.
How do Special Instruction and Music Therapy work together?
These services are highly complementary. Both support similar goals (communication, motor, cognitive, emotional) but use different methods. A Special Instructor may help a family build general learning strategies, while a music therapist enhances those goals using rhythm, melody, and musical play. Together, they offer a richer, more engaging developmental experience tailored to each child.
