Tiny instruments, big hearts with “Sing & Grow”

Tiny instruments, big hearts with “Sing & Grow” 

Every Thursday morning at the Asylum Seekers Centre in Newtown, our main hall fills with little footsteps, laughter, and melodies. 

This is Sing & Grow—a weekly music therapy program for parents and children under six, offered in partnership with Play Matters.

It’s a time where families seeking asylum gather to sing, dance, play instruments, and connect—with each other, with their children, and with  community.

A circle of belonging

Each session begins with families gathering on a soft rug, forming a circle that welcomes everyone—no matter their background or musical experience.

Children explore tambourines, shakers, and other instruments. Their parents clap along too.

Leading the session is Eleisha, a music therapist from Play Matters. With a pink guitar and a big smile, Eleisha guides the children–and the parents–through song, dance and fun . 

Eleisha, music therapist

Building confidence

Eleisha shares, “It’s been so lovely getting to know the families… and seeing the kids’ confidence grow more and more each week.”

The Sing & Grow program runs over several weeks. Songs are repeated so children can learn the words and feel proud when they sing along.

“You see it happen so quickly. After just one session, they’re remembering the songs. By week three or four, they’re singing loudly, playing instruments, and even helping each other.”

“It’s definitely lovely seeing them coming out of their shells every session.”

Not just for kids

While the children clearly love it, the parents often get just as much from the sessions.

“Day-to-day life is tricky being a parent and you’ve got a lot on your plate. I think coming here and just being able to enjoy, having like 45 minutes to an hour of just fun with your child, it’s important and so nice.”

Parents also leave with new songs and play ideas they can use at home.

“One mum told me she uses tissues for the popcorn song (we sing in class) at home!” 

Music that connects 

For families who are newly arrived or still adjusting to life in Australia, Sing & Grow offers a way to connect in melody, and language differences do not hinder the connection and community. 

“Music is so inclusive,” Eleisha explains. 

“Even if you don’t speak the language, even if you’ve never played an instrument before, it’s such a beautiful way for people to connect in a safe, inclusive environment.”

A shared space of joy 

At the end of each session, families stay to enjoy snacks and conversation.

This time together can be just as important as the songs—offering companionship, comfort, and the feeling of belonging.

Organised by the Asylum Seekers Centre’s Client Services team, Sing & Grow is part of their broader work to support families through case work and community participation.

Meg, our Community Participation coordinator adds, “The ASC feels alive when Sing and Grow is on.”

“It is beautiful to see children so excited and engaged and parents having fun with them and each other. We are so appreciative of what Eleisha and Play Matters have been able to offer our community.”

 Sing & Grow is more than music. It’s about belonging and helping families feel safe and joyful—one song at a time.