Free Kids’ Sensory Art and Music Experience at Holland Museum

Amanda Rhines-Poehlman, executive director of Disability Network Lakeshore, understands first-hand the profound impact of music on her son, who has Down Syndrome and autism.

"He adores music. It's like his love language," Rhines-Poehlman says. "It’s one of the ways he communicates more clearly. So, it motivates him, energizes him, and he engages more with us when we're singing and dancing like that. That's where we get the best connection with him."

That experience is why Rhines-Poehlman was excited to have Disability Network Lakeshore, which provides personalized disability resources in Ottawa and Allegan counties, partner with the Holland Symphony Orchestra, CultureWorks and the Holland Museum on a music and art experience for children with cognitive disabilities. 

The four nonprofits are collaborating to create a Kids’ Sensory Art and Music Experience on Saturday, Aug. 10, from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Holland Museum, 31 W. 10th St.

The free ​experience is one of 10 HSO Music Moves Us events happening in Holland from Aug. 6-10. These activities encompass a variety of music and dance experiences, including salsa, hip hop, and big band swing dance lessons, culminating in the symphony’s “Music Unites Us – Brazil!” program at Kollen Park on Aug. 10.

Inclusive environment

The event aims to provide a sensory-friendly environment for children with disabilities. CultureWorks, Holland’s transformative art and design academy, and the Holland Museum are supporting the effort.

“Sharing everyone’s story through music, art, and history builds a stronger, more inclusive community and we celebrate that at the Holland Museum,” says Michelle Stempien, Executive Director, Holland Museum. “We look forward to welcoming families to the Holland Museum on August 10.”
Amanda Rhines-PoehlmanAmanda Rhines-Poehlman and her son, Cooper.
Led by Black River Arts teacher Liz Donoghue, the event will feature activities such as play dough sculpting, dancing wands, sponge stamping, and live music segments performed by Maddie Dykehouse on the cello.

Ketzi Chacon-Zylstra, a board member of HSO and event organizer, used her experience as a mother to create an inclusive event for children with sensory needs. 

Her son, who is autistic, loves music and playing his keyboard. He is a member of the Black River School Jazz band. Her involvement with HSO began when she took him to the orchestra’s concerts.

“I know firsthand what it is like to struggle in public events because sometimes it is too much, too big, and too loud. In my child's early years, we only watched classical music concerts and ballet on TV because he would be scared of even entering an auditorium,” says Chacon-Zylstra.

Her son, now 16, has come a long way since then, but those past experiences inspired her to join with others to produce the "Sensory Art and Concert" event. 

“The aim is not only to provide a welcoming space but also to offer a rich sensory experience where live music, touch, and movement come together, and I am deeply thankful to HSO for their support in fostering an inclusive community where every child can enjoy the gift of live music.”

With limited spots available, those interested in participating are encouraged to register early by contacting Ketzi at zylstraketzi@gmail.com (subject: Music Moves Us). Parents are also advised to bring noise-canceling headphones if they believe it will enhance their children's experience.

For more information about the Music Moves Us events, visit the Holland Symphony Orchestra’s website.

The Lakeshore WM is the media sponsor of Music Moves Us.