'Jammin Jen' Helps Children's Institute Pupils Connect Through Song

The Children's Institute in Verona enlisted the help of music therapist "Jammin" Jenn Pacht-Goodman to get the Institute's students grooving to the music, singing along, and having a good time.

The Children's Institute is the second oldest school in the State of NJ for children, ages 3-21 who have been diagnosed with autism, and learning and emotional disabilities.

Pacht-Goodman, of Watchung, began her class at The Children’s Institute with the “Hello!” song.  In just seconds, students were clapping their hands, singing along, and smiling broadly. Pacht-Goodman is the founder of Jammin Jenn Music Therapy for Children, LLC, and was hired by The Children’s Institute for their Extended School Program.

Jenn’s melodious singing voice and passion for what she does, enables her to instantly connect with her students.  She says she is rewarded by their increased expressive speech and eye contact, and their growing ability to stop, think and verbally request what they want.  Autism is a developmental disorder that affects the brain's normal development of social and communication skills and Pacht-Goodman is convinced that music can make a real difference for a child with autism. 

    “Music therapy is not about teaching music.  It is about helping a child with a disability, in this case, autism, to make a connection to his or her world through music.  My program is designed for children with special needs to help them communicate, become aware of their peers in a fun and social way,” Jenn explained.