Kiddleydivey East Midlands

Updated: 24th June 2026

Bringing Music, Memories and Moments of Joy: Why Kiddleydivey sessions with Emma work so well in care homes

If you’ve ever noticed how a familiar song can change the atmosphere in a room within seconds, you’ll already understand the quiet magic that music brings into a care home.

It reaches people in a way that words sometimes can’t.

That’s exactly why inviting a Kiddleydivey music leader like Emma into your home can feel like such a natural fit.

Her sessions aren’t just about singing along (although there’s plenty of that too!). They’re about connection, confidence, and creating those small but powerful moments where residents feel seen, heard and included.

And as an activity coordinator, that’s what you’re aiming for every day.

Music that meets people where they are

One of the loveliest things about Emma’s Kiddleydivey sessions is how inclusive they are.

There’s no expectation for residents to join in properly or follow along in a certain way.

Instead, Emma gently creates a space where everyone can take part in whatever way feels comfortable for them.

That might look like:

• Singing along loudly to a favourite tune

• Tapping a hand or foot to the rhythm

• Smiling quietly while listening

• Or simply being present in the room

And all of those responses are just as valuable

For residents living with dementia, this is especially important. Music can unlock memories, spark recognition, and bring a sense of familiarity that feels safe and reassuring.

You may see someone who is usually withdrawn suddenly light up at the first few notes of a song they remember.

Those moments matter.

Gentle stimulation without pressure

It’s easy to feel the pressure to “do more” or “keep people busy”, but meaningful activity doesn’t have to be complicated.

Kiddleydivey sessions offer a lovely balance of:

• Cognitive stimulation (remembering lyrics, recognising tunes)

• Physical movement (clapping, swaying, simple actions)

• Emotional connection (shared enjoyment, laughter, reminiscence)

And it all happens in a way that feels natural rather than forced.

There’s no sense of testing or expectation.

Just gentle engagement.

This is particularly helpful for residents who may feel anxious in more structured activities, or who have lost confidence over time.

Creating shared experiences

Music has a way of bringing people together, even when conversation feels difficult.

During these sessions, you’ll often notice:

• Residents making eye contact with each other

• Smiles being shared across the room

• Staff joining in and connecting with residents in a different way

  
  

It becomes less about running an activity and more about creating a shared experience.

And those shared moments can carry on long after the session has finished.

You might hear residents humming a tune later in the day, or referencing a memory that was sparked during the music.

A thoughtful approach to song choice

Emma’s sessions are carefully put together to reflect a wide range of ages, abilities and life experiences.

The music isn’t random - it’s chosen with care.

Familiar songs can:

• Trigger memories from earlier life

• Support identity and sense of self

• Encourage participation without needing instructions

  
  

And because music spans generations, there’s often something for everyone to connect with, whether they’re actively joining in or simply enjoying listening.

Kiddleydivey East Midlands: A name that reflects the joy

You might be wondering where the name Kiddleydivey comes from.

It’s inspired by the playful 1940s song Mairzy Doats, with its wonderfully muddled lyrics:

“Mairzy doats and dozy doats and liddle lamzy divey…”

When you slow it down, it reveals its meaning:

“Mares eat oats and does eat oats and little lambs eat ivy… a kid’ll eat ivy too, wouldn’t you?”

It’s light-hearted, a little bit silly, and full of charm.

And that’s exactly the feeling these sessions bring.

There’s no need to be perfect. No need to get things right.

Just a chance to enjoy, laugh, and be part of something together.

A gentle support for you too

As an activity coordinator, it can feel like everything rests on your shoulders.

Planning, adapting, encouraging, documenting…

So having a session like this come into your home isn’t just beneficial for residents - it can be a support for you too.

You get to:

• Step back and observe residents in a different way

• Notice new responses or preferences

• Enjoy the atmosphere alongside them

Sometimes, just seeing residents relaxed, engaged and happy is exactly what you need to refill your own cup a little.

Booking details

Emma offers Kiddleydivey sessions for care homes in East Midlands; Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire and surrounding areas (including across the Staffordshire border).

If you’re looking for something that brings warmth, familiarity and genuine connection into your home, this could be a lovely option to explore.

07508 419399 derby@kiddleydivey.co.uk

Music doesn’t need to be complicated to be powerful.

Sometimes, it’s simply about creating a space where people can feel something again, together.

And that’s where sessions like this really shine.