July is Disability Pride Month, a time to recognize and celebrate people with disabilities, not just for their challenges, but for their strength, creativity, and uniqueness.
A group of teens in California is using music to connect with kids on the autism spectrum. Their project, called Mozart in Me, creates a space where kids can explore sounds, try instruments, and enjoy music freely — without being judged or told to perform a certain way.
The idea came from Katie Tran, a 16-year-old whose mom is a pediatrician. With support from the Dragon Kim Foundation, Katie launched a free, twice-a-month class and gathered a team of teen musicians to help lead it. Together, they’ve created something truly special.
“Music is universal,” Katie says. “It doesn’t require language or speaking, and that’s what makes it so special, especially for kids who are often misunderstood.”
One of those kids is 5-year-old Vin, who has trouble speaking and usually spends his time in highly structured behavioral therapy. But in this music class, things are different. He gets to move at his own pace, explore instruments, and just enjoy being a kid.
“It’s good for him to try what he wants,” his mom said. “Because behind all the labels, he’s just a regular kid.”
And he’s not the only one blossoming. What began last fall with just seven kids has grown into a vibrant community of over 30 children and volunteers.
Evan, an 8-year-old, was one of the first to join. Diagnosed with autism as a toddler, he’s always been shy and unsure how to connect with others. But everything changed when he touched a piano for the first time. He focused. He played. And for the first time, his mom saw him light up in a whole new way.
“He said, ‘Look at me! I can do this,” she recalled, holding back tears. “It felt like a miracle.”
Evan now takes additional piano lessons outside the program. His confidence is growing. He’s more social. He’s engaged — not just with music, but with the world around him.
For many families, especially those raising autistic children, this kind of progress brings deep relief and hope. It’s a reminder that when children are given the right space — a gentle, flexible, judgment-free space they often surprise us in the best ways.
Sacramento ABA Therapy would like to thank Katie Tran, her team of youth volunteers, and the Dragon Kim Foundation for creating such a thoughtful and joyful program. Your work is opening doors for children who are too often left out of traditional spaces.
If you or someone you care about is autistic — or if you’re wondering whether a diagnosis might help bring clarity — Sacramento ABA is here to support you every step of the way. We offer:
