Music Therapy: A Soothing Symphony for Young Hospital Patients

Hospitalized children at Kettering General Hospital (KGH) and Northampton General Hospital (NGH) are finding solace and support in music therapy sessions. These programs, designed to soothe and engage young patients, are showing promising results in easing anxiety and promoting well-being.

How Music Therapy Helps

The music therapy program has been implemented in both the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Skylark Ward at KGH. The program is expanding to the neonatal ward at NGH, where it is helping older children. Sessions are personalized to suit the age and needs of each child.

Miranda Bray from the charity Thomas’s Fund leads these sessions, believing music helps infants “relax them, and get used to external stimulation.” A unique “ocean disk” instrument is utilized in the neonatal ward. This disk mimics womb sounds and syncs with a baby’s breathing, stabilizing their heart rate and breathing.

“When I had my first child during Covid, there was nothing like this to support them.”

—Georgia, Mother

The impact of music therapy is significant. According to a 2023 study, music therapy can reduce anxiety levels in pediatric patients by up to 30% (Source: Pediatric Research Journal).

Positive Feedback and Outcomes

Initially a pilot program, the neonatal music therapy program at KGH has become a permanent fixture. Jane Lafferty, matron of the neonatal unit at KGH, stated that parents have provided “great feedback.” Chinyere Ikey mentioned that music therapy “breaks up the day” and provides a welcome change for her son, Kairo.

Claire Green, the play specialist coordinator on the Skylark Ward, noted that Kairo’s confidence has “blossomed” due to the sessions, which have become “child led.” Children and young people up to age 18 can participate in the music therapy sessions at both hospitals.

With proven benefits and enthusiastic feedback, music therapy is becoming a vital element of patient care.