South Philly School Unveils Musical Garden to Inspire Young Minds

The Philadelphia Performing Arts Charter School has launched a unique musical sensory garden aimed at enhancing creativity and learning for children, particularly those with autism and developmental challenges. Funded by a grant from String Theory Schools, the garden provides a vibrant outdoor space where students can engage with various musical instruments and explore their senses.

Located on a side street near the school, this newly created area features a variety of sounds, from the laughter of children to the beats of drums and the melodies of chimes. Vice Principal January Teti, who opened the garden, expressed her enthusiasm for the space. “You can utilize this space and make it whatever your imagination can go with,” she noted.

On a recent Friday morning, approximately two dozen kindergarten students filled the garden, playing on a soft green turf floor surrounded by a winding yellow path. Clad in coats and gloves, the children moved between playing bongo drums, glockenspiels, and other musical instruments scattered throughout the area.

The musical sensory garden officially opened in the fall of 2023, emphasizing the therapeutic benefits of music for young learners. Research indicates that music therapy can significantly enhance social interaction, communication, and cognitive skills in children with neurodevelopmental and behavioral issues. Teti highlighted the garden’s role in promoting learning through sound and movement: “We have a safe therapeutic area for our students exploring all five senses, and then we can have all the children grow.”

The garden is not only a space for children with autism; it also caters to general education classes. Students can book time in the garden for outdoor lessons, which may include writing assignments, art, or simply enjoying the creative environment. “It really is fun for them to experience something different,” Teti added.

The garden’s design is particularly whimsical, featuring sculptures of animals like giraffes and roosters amidst flower beds and small trees. Tiny birdhouses hang from fences, and a bright red pavilion serves as a mini classroom, equipped with benches for group activities.

The impact of arts education on student learning has been well-documented. Ellie Brown, a psychologist who has researched arts-focused education for over 20 years, asserts that creative expression significantly enhances learning outcomes. This aligns with the garden’s mission to foster creativity among all students.

On a recent visit, a group of girls played around colorful, mushroom-shaped instruments, delighting in the sounds they could create. One student exclaimed, “We can play whatever we want,” while another chimed in, “They’re noisy. I like it.” Teachers observed from the edges, taking joy in the children’s improvisation and imagination.

Nikisha Joseph, a registered behavior technician who works closely with students with developmental challenges, remarked on the joy the garden brings. “It’s nice to see them come out and have a good time. It makes you feel good at the end of the day,” she said.

This initiative reflects a broader commitment to enhancing educational experiences through creativity. As part of a series focusing on the influence of creative practices on student success, this project has garnered attention and support from the Marrazzo Family Foundation, which aims to foster creativity among Philadelphia youth.

The Philadelphia Performing Arts Charter School’s musical sensory garden not only enriches the educational landscape for its students but also stands as a testament to the power of creativity in learning.