Our Story
Our founder, Laura A. Fonseca, MM, MT-BC, has always found inspiration in using music to promote development, learning and growth. The idea for an interactive music therapy songbook first began to percolate while Laura was studying music therapy at Berklee College of Music. By the time Laura graduated, a handful of original songs and music experiences for children of all ages had been curated.
As Laura worked as a MT-BC and completed a Master’s of Music Therapy Program at Colorado State University, more original melodies were crafted and combined with developmental neuroscience knowledge. These neurodevelopment informed songs, experiences and learning activities became the foundation of Stepping Tones! But our story does not end there…
During the process of recording songs and organizing implementation guides, the vision of what Stepping Tones could be began to expand. The project evolved from one songbook into a music program and social initiative. The intention to make learning through music accessible and equitable continues to be supported through our music, resources, and songbooks for parents and professionals.
Our Developmental Songbook Series
Each volume in the Stepping Tones Developmental Songbook series has been carefully crafted to support seamless integration of use for families and professionals. Our songbooks include original songs created by Board-Certified Music Therapists to promote learning and development from a neurodevelopmental perspectve. These songs utilize elements of music to promote engagement, connection and growth. Stepping Tones provides a customizable and modular experience. Along with the high quality song recordings, each volume can be customized to include: lead sheets for each song, implementation guides and visual learning resources.
Our Programs
Our music programming is designed with accessibility in mind. In addition to resources, we offer specialized music classes for children, as well as tutorials, workshops, and consultation for parents and professionals.
We use a person-centered and individualized approach when designing programming for each group or individual. Our programs use music to support learning at all levels.
We provide
Individual & group music therapy for all ages
Specialized music classes for all ages
Resources & tutorials for parents & professionals
Workshops & consultation for parents & professionals
Our Social Initiative
While working as a MT-BC in Southern California, our founder observed that music therapy, music development classes, and music for learning were not accessible or equitable for all children. These services weren’t even readily available to children in Laura’s own neighborhood! This knowledge turned to action which became our social initiative.
Stepping Tones was designed to provide accessible and equitable music classes and music therapy programming to children in all communities. Proceeds from sales are used to establish community partnerships and integrate consistent music programs that focus on supporting development for children within historically overlooked communities. Our pay it forward program allows resourced families to support under resourced families in their community receive individual services.