Northern Star Therapy in Bellville creates memories through Little Beats program

BELLVILLE — Toddlers shake instruments, parents sing along and no one worries about getting it wrong.

Northern Star Therapy located at 48 Church Street in Bellville offers music and movements each Tuesday.

Pediatric speech-language pathologist Nancy Labaki said her goal was to create a class and space where families could experience these benefits together in a low-pressure setting, without needing a diagnosis or therapy referral.

Labaki said music and movement can be a powerful way to build communication, attention and connection, especially for young children. Music naturally supports language through rhythm, repetition and shared experiences, often helping children feel more engaged and at ease.

Little Beats: Therapy through music and movement

The music and movement classes, also known as Little Beats, have no expectations for the children who attend. Whether they want to sit still, sing along or participate in their own way, children are welcome to join at their own pace.

Over time, Labaki said she has seen children make the most progress when they feel safe, supported and not pressured. Supporting families through that process and helping them recognize their child’s strengths continues to motivate her every day.

“Honestly, watching the children light up during the music, explore the instruments and fully enjoy the experience gives me goosebumps every time,” she said. “It has a real sense of joy and community, and it feels easy and comfortable for families.”

Sensory needs are kept in mind, with the ability to work with parents and make adjustments as needed. Northern Star Therapy intentionally alternates between upbeat songs, calming songs, and songs with and without words.

“There is also a literacy component to the class, which includes a short story, and in some sessions we offer brief breakout activities,” Labaki said.

During breakout activities, children rotate between sensory-based experiences while parents receive guidance on how to engage with their child during play.

Children lead the activities, and families actively follow along.

“All forms of communication are welcome, including words, sounds, gestures, signs, movement and communication devices,” Labaki said. “The focus is on comfort, joy, connection and shared experience, not on doing things perfectly or meeting expectations.

“I want parents to know that Little Beats music classes are truly open to everyone,” she said. “Children with communication or other developmental needs are welcome, as are typically developing children.”

(Story continues below photos. More photos from previous Little Beats classes at Northern Star Therapy. Provided by Madison Adams)

Northern Star Therapy creates a supportive environment

Labaki founded Northern Star Therapy in Bellville after spending 26 years working closely with young children and their families.

“I was drawn to this field because communication is about so much more than words,” Labaki said. “It’s about connection, confidence and helping people feel understood.”

Northern Star Therapy was a personal mission for Labaki, growing out of her desire to support families in a way that felt personal, sustainable and practical. She said the practice offers pediatric speech and language therapy through private services, as well as school-based speech therapy.

All services center on play, connection and whole-child development, focusing on supporting children and families in ways that feel doable, inclusive and approachable.

“Over the years, I saw many parents feeling unsure of what to do and often overwhelmed, even though they were already doing many things right,” she said. “I missed having the time and space to truly listen to parents and build meaningful relationships with families.”

“Connection comes first,” Labaki said, calling it the most important focus when creating Northern Star Therapy — learning through play and everyday experiences, with an intentional focus on understanding each child’s strengths and needs to help them thrive.

“Northern Star was built to meet families where they are and to make communication support feel approachable rather than stressful,” Labaki said.

The future of Little Beats

Little Beats and the summer language camp are the main focuses, though Labaki said she is open to exploring additional options in the future.

“While there will always be a focus on speech and language because that’s who I am, the heart of this program is really about play, joy and enjoying time together,” she said. “When we focus on connection and shared experiences, learning naturally follows.”

Labaki noted the classes do not replace therapy, but rather serve as a hopeful starting point — a place for parents who may have questions about behavior or sensory needs to come and learn.

Families can expect a routine-based class, allowing children to know what to expect each time while still building flexibility. The classes are offered at 4:15 or 5:30 p.m., capping groups at six families to maintain a calm and supportive environment.

Each session runs in a six-week block, developing its own rhythm and theme to guide the experience. The next session starts Jan. 13 and will feature a winter and snow theme.

“It’s always rewarding to watch children grow more confident and comfortable as the weeks go on,” she said. “They begin to recognize the routines, learn the songs and anticipate some of their favorite parts of class.”