Music Archives

September 1, 2020July 20, 2022

Center for All Abilities- Chinatown

Do you think it would be FUN to go with other families like yours on a Family Outing? Yeah, Me too! The Center for All Abilities offers Family Support for those with a member who has a disability. Everything you could’ve ever dreamed of is housed within this one organization.

First, let me begin with the youth mentorship program. Adults lead Christian Based discussions on virtues and character-building behaviors. These can be done as a group or one-on-one. Guidance to lead us on the right path to a quality life is always good. Am I right?

Second, there is the popular Blue Hat Vocational Training. Cooking becomes even more of an enriching experience when you do it as a group! Let the teamwork skills begin. We all know how important it is to learn how to work together to get things done. You’ll also learn useful safety skills in the kitchen. In like manner, the cooking process helps you prepare to maybe work in a restaurant one day. Typically this program is for teens and adults. Who knows after joining the program you might even want to open a bakery one day? I just have one request. Please make sure it’s handicap accessible. Wait. Make that two requests. Carry brownies, my absolute fave! Deal?

Of course, the Center for All Abilities also offers therapeutic art and music programs. The beauty of both of these is that a certified trained therapist will meet you at your level of expertise. No pressure or need to worry if you don’t feel you’re that creative. They are there to help. No judgments just good times.

Ultimately the center hopes you’ll choose to become part of their family support programs for those with all sorts of disabilities. I say this because I saved the best for last. They have an Annual Achievement Ceremony! You know the one with the awards and you are beaming all day. That’s right. Every single year they like to celebrate what you and your new friends have accomplished throughout the programs.

Baby Fingers Learning Center- On the Upper West Side Teaches ASL and then Some!

man holding clapper board — Photo by Martin Lopez on Pexels.com

Ever taken a filmmaking Class here in Manhattan? No? Well, have I got some exciting news for You. Yes, It’s True Baby Fingers Learning Center offers one. I might be wrong but I haven’t heard of any of the other programs that teach filmmaking to those with disabilities. Definitely not here in NYC anyway. So I am already loving that Baby Fingers took the plunge to be the first. Not only that, but you can also learn how to change your accent to become a different character. Furthermore, you can learn how to audition for a part, and create your very own play.

At the present time, Baby Fingers teaches classes about essential oils such as Lavender, Peppermint, and Eucalyptus as well. Typically this class is for those 18 and up. When we talk about using oils we have to mention Yoga. You can schedule a group of friends to do the stretches with you and feel the soothing benefits together. However, if you rather take a private session they will be happy to accommodate you. This goes for all of the Baby Fingers Lessons.

persons hand doing peace sign — Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.com

Obviously, with all this tween and teen programming you might be wondering how the name Baby Fingers fits the name of the center. Actually, I have saved the best for last. Baby Fingers teaches ASL-American Sign Language to boot. All ages and abilities are able to participate in learning to sing along in sign language. Signing skills can open you up to a whole new world of possibilities and friendships.

Above all, trained professionals are there to help students with disabilities everything from starting an intro to filmmaking class to how to sign a top hip hop song. Baby Fingers has all its upcoming courses on its website below. Check it out. You can always call them if that’s easier. 212-874-5978 email is info@mybabyfingers.com

https://mybabyfingers.com/calendar/action~month/exact_date~1593576000/request_format~html/

Have you printed out the Disability Ally NYC calendar yet? https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/calendar/

May 29, 2020May 30, 2020

Sparkidz Program-Upper East Side

Sparkidz is a Special Needs Social-Recreational Program. Classes are held on Saturdays from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm during the months of September through June. Although activities take place at The Trevor School you do not need to be enrolled there to attend.

Uniquely Art, Music, Theater, Dance, Sports, and Cooking are all offered at the one location. Our favorite subjects under one roof. It doesn’t get better than this. Oh my, maybe it does? From time to time they even take Field Trips. Score!

If I know you, you are probably thinking you might have something else on Saturdays? Despite their sadness, Sparkidz Program understands. Flexibility is yet another positive to the network of trained teachers. Want to take one class or do a half-day? Sure, No problem with both. Suppose you want the whole enchilada? I like your style. FOMO(fear of missing out) is never fun. In that case, signup for a Full Day. Ages 6 on up to 25. Sparkidz is also supervised with a 3: 1 student-teacher ratio thus able to give you extra help if you need it.

https://www.sparkidz.org/

If you want to read about other programs in Manhattan click here and choose your category. https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/category/programs-classes/

May 15, 2020May 30, 2020

Broadway Babysitters- NYC

Do you know those teen babysitters that just sit on the couch and watch TV while the kids are going bonkers in the other room?

These adult babysitters are not that! Broadway Babysitters are individuals that work in the arts industry and are trained in taking care of Special Needs Children. The sitters are vetted and referred so you can enjoy yourself without worrying about kids at home. Additionally, they are trained in CPR. Specializing in engaging interaction BB’s do lessons, games, and entertain the kids. Providing this type of creative arts play is a win-win for everyone. In other words, it’s like taking a private liberal arts class except YOU decide the date and time. Once you have done that the rest is easy. Just emphasize what you have in and mind beforehand when you book. Then without further ado, a Broadway Professional will arrive eager to think and create together.

Similarily BB’s will even attend a wedding or event and make sure kids are busy while you are out on the dance floor. Your kids will be thrilled to Sing, Dance, Act, Draw, or even learn a New Instrument with these Broadway Babysitters Professionals. Virtual lessons and workshops are available. Date night is back with a click…

https://www.broadwaybabysitters.com/

Want to learn about more live theater entertainment ? https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/category/entertainment/theater/

May 14, 2020June 9, 2020

Daniel’s Music Foundation- East Harlem

Daniel’s Music Foundation(DMF) welcomes All Abilities in their Music Classes. With attention to Diversity, Inclusion, and Joy of Heart it’s no wonder the foundation has been around for over a decade.

You see, regardless of skill level, DMF believes that Everyone is a Musician at Heart! For this reason, Daniel’s Music uses a “Smile First” approach to teaching individuals with disabilities. Whether it’s to a group or a private one-on-one lesson DMF’s goal is to make you feel happy and empowered. Indeed, Daniel’s Adaptive and interactive music classes serve as a universal tool for bringing everyone together. In fact, DMF instills the motto “Just call Me By Name” with all students to ensure universal inclusivity and acceptance.

Furthermore, students can learn at a pace that feels comfortable for them. Teachers meet students where they are in their mastery level while still encouraging growth. DMF generally takes Ages 3 and up of all abilities in music where you can acquire skills using a wide variety of instruments. In addition, one can take a DJ, Songwriting, Dance class, or voice training. Practice One Two this could be for YOU!

https://www.danielsmusic.org/diversity-awareness-overview

Speaking of music. Have you heard of High 5 to the Arts? You can go to a Broadway Musical for 5 Bucks! https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/teen-social-theater-category-entertainment-theater-high-5-to-the-arts-arts-connection/

May 1, 2020June 12, 2020

SNACK -(Special Needs Activity Center Kids +Adults )-Midtown

Please allow me to introduce you to The SNACK* Center located in Midtown. This exceptional Special Needs Program in Midtown has it ALL. For instance, the Center has various classes in Art, Music, Swimming, Fitness, and Yoga. In general, you would be running around town to take these lessons. Am I right? That’s not the case here. Everything is conveniently located under one roof. This means more time having fun with your peeps rather than commuting place to place. YES, Finally, someone gets me!

With inclusivity in mind, Snack also has a Social Club for those Fly Adults that are 21 and up. Originally SNACK* was geared toward children with Autism. However, the center quickly expanded to be an umbrella type of Special Needs Program for Midtown. All of the programs are also open to people in wheelchairs in addition to people who have NO disability whatsoever. Classes are small with a 2 to 1 ratio and usually no bigger than 8 students. Try a FREE trial class to see if a certain SNACK class is a good fit with just a click down below.

https://www.snacknyc.com/about

Hey on the off chance you want to know about other exhilarating opportunities in Manhattan- Would ya sign up for the Special Needs NYC’s Newsletter ?https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/newsletter/

April 30, 2020June 15, 2020

Sprout-Chelsea

Sprout has some Weekend and Evening Special Needs Programs that will blow your socks off! Have you heard of them yet? No? That’s a shame because they have been around since 1979. That’s before you were even born. Life was so boring back then. I’m glad YOU arrived to BRIGHTEN OUR WORLD. Please thank your Momma for me.

Now back to Sprout, the amazing non-profit organization that aims to make the invisible visible. I’m so loving them already. Notably, their Travel and Film programs have presented mind-blowing opportunities for the Special Needs Community to grow and flourish. The Sprout team puts also puts on an annual Sproutstock, weekend-long music, and arts festival. This provides yet another way people of all abilities can let loose and have incredible fun! Weekend and Evening Special Needs Programs never had it so good! I almost forgot I need to point out one catch to participation. YOU must be 16 plus to join the group. Sorry, youg’uns your time will come. Add a little water and sunshine with just a click down below.

https://gosprout.org/

Hey, Have You Subscribed to the Newsletter Yet? How else are you going to stay on top of all the latest Special Needs News in Manhattan? https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/newsletter/

April 24, 2020June 4, 2020

Roaring Epiphany Production Company-Midtown

Inclusive Acting Roaring Epiphany Production Company

Inclusive Acting and Audition opportunities are somewhat lacking in New York City. Honestly, let me be real. They are lacking everywhere. However, NYC is a great place to start breaking through theater barriers.

Through our good fortune, RJ VerChuad decided to take the bull by the horns to try and fill some of the gaps. Back in 2015, he founded The Roaring Epiphany Production Company, (REPC). For the sole purpose of bringing inclusion acting to the forefront, REPC began casting ADULTS with disabilities in theatrical roles.

At the present time, productions of new and old works are performed at The Playroom Theater. REPC members get the chance to work alongside Broadway and off-Broadway actors. Generally, Adults 18+ with disabilities can audition to take the stage as actors, singers, dancers, and poets just to name a few options. Individuals in wheelchairs can easily apply and audition because the Playroom Theater is accessible for ALL.

Due to Roaring Epiphany’s diligence, Inclusive Acting is here to stay in New York City. We certainly hope that other cities take notice and start their own organizations to promote actors of ALL abilities. Your Opening Night awaits. Click Below.

https://www.roaringepiphany.com/about

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April 22, 2020June 6, 2020

High 5 to the Arts! Midtown and around town

A Teen Social Theater Program called High 5 to the Arts was the brainchild of the Arts Connection. Their mission is simple. Bring liberal arts right to the teens of NYC for BEYOND a reasonable price. Music, Theater, Movies, Dance, and even some Museum Galleries are all available for you to purchase a ticket online for a mere $5 or $10. Say what? Tickets to Theater alone are ordinarily around 59 Bucks. What a Steal!

Now here’s the catch you need to be a middle or high schooler. If you have some sort of ID to prove that, then viola you are in. The beauty is that for every ticket a student purchases an adult is welcome to purchase an additional ticket to go with them at the same price.

By and large, High 5 to the Arts is the coolest Teen Social Theater program out there. When you’re ready, get your gang together. Then sign up and take advantage of all their amazing events. Be sure to check out their FAQ section to review the fine points. Click below to join in on the FUN!

https://teens.artsconnection.org/high5/

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April 18, 2020June 8, 2020

KOL Program at 14th St. Y – East Village

weekend recreation program creative arts classes nyc

A Weekend Recreation Program might be a splendid idea if you’re too busy during the week to have some FUN! As a matter of fact, I think YOU deserve to get your giggle on after a week of school.

Lucky for us, The 14th Street Y has developed the KOL program specifically with you in mind. Whenever the weekend rolls around KOL cranks it up with lively classes on Saturdays or Sundays for Ages 4-17. Together with some other amazing Organizations, Creative Classes are offered such as So Magic, Music makers, Arts RX, and Yummy Cooking. Pair that with the Sports classes that are also accessible, you may never want to leave the Y for school on Monday!

Just kidding, we both know you can’t ditch school. There is nowhere to sleep. Your parents and teachers would be missing you. What would your friends say? How about this idea? During the week, school and homework. Weekends, It’s ON!

Oh, Before You Go, I want to mention that classes are geared towards some specific disability types and levels according to the 14thstreetY’s website. However, don’t stress! First, just fill out the intake form and go from there. Here’s one of the best parts. FREE Trial classes are offered to help you or your child(in case Mom is reading) decide if KOL ‘ s Weekend Recreation Program is the right fit.

https://www.14streety.org/youth-programs/special-needs/

Do you want to learn more about who writes this stuff? That’s my story and I’m stickin’ to it. https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/http-specialneedsnyc-net-aboutme/