JF&CS recreation programs provide kids a chance to have fun, make friends, and build community with other kids.

Our Virtual Music Group is for kids, teens, and young adults with disabilities, while our in-person Sibshops events are for kids and teens who have siblings with disabilities.

Virtual Music Group

JF&CS Virtual Music Group is a fun, social group that helps kids build community and friendship through music. 

Music therapy is an evidence-based practice that promotes growth and positive change through musical activities such as singing and instrument play. Our group provides not only access to music therapy, but inclusion in a community in which to build and develop friendships. 

Music sessions are run by certified music therapists and are offered virtually multiple times per week on Zoom, in the afternoons and during the weekend. Registered participants can attend as many sessions as they like on a drop-in basis. Participation is open to all kids, teens, and young adults who have a variety of intellectual and physical disabilities including those who are non-verbal. 

Group music sessions include joyful singing and other musical activities within a traditional music therapy structure. JF&CS’s unique Musical Book Club occurs weekly and is a creative twist on the traditional music group where participants can enjoy a read-a-aloud book with discussion, tell jokes, read poetry, and share stories—in addition to joyful singing and dancing.  

Registration

Registration is open to kids, teens, and young adults 8 years and older. An annual registration fee covers participation for the entire year from January to December. Scholarships are available so that our program is fully accessible to all regardless of finances.  

To learn more and to register for Virtual Music Group please contact Valerie Maio, Manager, Inclusive Programs for Children and Families, at vmaio@jfcsboston.org.

"James loves music group! He looks forward to every session of the music program and the opportunity for social interaction with his peers and Music Therapists. Thank you for creating such a warm and welcoming environment for our kids to learn, grow, and foster friendships.”

Sibshops

JF&CS Sibshops offer kids and teens who have siblings with special needs a place to connect and build community. The monthly events provide participants a chance to meet and connect with other kids who also have siblings with special needs, in a fun and recreational setting. At our events, the group spends time together sharing a meal, doing fun activities like bowling, painting, and escape rooms, and engaging in SibChat discussion and activities. 

To learn more and to register for Sibshops, please contact Valerie Maio, Manager, Inclusive Programs for Children and Families, at vmaio@jfcsboston.org.