Raymond Van Gobel on Music's Healing Power for Kids
If you familiarize people, kids, to other cultures and other ways, then they just become normalized and not scary or other.
How can music help kids navigate tough times? Raymond Van Gobel, better known as Mr Rayz, has some answers. In this episode of 'Ruthless Compassion', Dr. Marcia Sirota chats with Mr Rayz, a children's entertainer and educator who's dedicated over 20 years to studying how music impacts child development and emotional intelligence. When COVID-19 turned the world upside down, Mr Rayz adapted his musical approach to bring relief, comfort, and resilience to stressed-out kids stuck at home.
Mr Rayz's journey isn't just about strumming guitars and singing catchy tunes. He delves into the importance of cultural diversity and vulnerability in his performances, aiming to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all children. The conversation also highlights the power of collaboration among artists and educators to enhance music education and appreciation. One of the standout topics in this episode is the Crush COVID project.
This virtual initiative encourages kids to write songs about their pandemic experiences, providing a creative outlet for their emotions. Dr. Sirota and Mr Rayz discuss how this project helps children process their feelings and build emotional resilience during these challenging times. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply curious about the therapeutic power of music, this episode offers valuable insights into creating supportive communities for children through the arts.
Tune in for an engaging and heartwarming discussion that underscores the role of music in helping kids thrive even in the toughest circumstances.