By Ms Michelle Pereira for BIS Mumbai

On July 12, 2025, the Don Bosco Academy campus at Nerul, Mumbai buzzed with music, laughter, and connection as Don Bosco Prafulta Nerul in collaboration with Wading Through Life - Funtoosh organized an inspiring and insightful Music Therapy Session for neurodivergent children and their parents at DBA.

The session began with a talk by our inhouse Clinical Psychologist, Mr Stephin Antony on the topic of Sensory Integration. Children with Autism and ADHD can often face sensory issues, that can be managed through sensory integration techniques. He also spoke of how music therapy uses rhythm, melody, and sound to engage multiple senses at once helping these children. Don Bosco Prafulta, Nerul has recently started a sensory room on its 1st floor as part of Prafulta. The room is fully equipped with different textures, fiber optic lights, tactile panels, soft play equipment, and specialized lighting, designed to cater to the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals.

Wading Through Life – Founder Director Ms Wenonah Castellino introduced the main speaker at the event, Mr Jude Rodrigues, to the audience. Mr Rodrigues is a trainer, counsellor and psychologist, who specialises as an- ICF coach, therapist and trainer. He along with a team of dedicated professionals Dr Sumedha Rao, Dr Bhakti Salgaonkar, Dr Revati Nalavde and Dr Damayanti conducted an interactive segment at the session. These trainers with a diverse background in psychological counselling and training conducted a session that was filled with activities for the children and parents.  

Mr Rodrigues conducted various activities keeping the audience on their toes and dwelling on their creativity. The theme of the day was ‘connecting, bonding and sharing.’ From drawing a turbo snail to engaging in a paper fan activity and relaxing Theta music exercises, the activities brought together creativity, movement, and emotional bonding. All the activities are associated with deep relaxation, creativity, and problem-solving, and helps reduce anxiety and stress.

The session culminated in a touching “Shower of Blessings” where parents showered flower petals on their children in a symbolic show of love and support. The joy on the children’s faces and the heartfelt feedback from parents made it clear — this was more than just a session; it was a celebration of connection and hope.