Moms and Dads, what does the word inclusivity mean to you?

For musicians Jim Bacarro and Saab Magalona, inclusivity is a lifestyle that became real when they became parents. Their journey started with Pancho, their firstborn who was born with cerebral palsy. That’s when they dove into the rollercoaster ride of parenting, and guess what? They didn’t just ride it out; they created something incredible out of it!

From their personal journey emerged Puddy Rock, which started out as a Youtube project at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. It has now transformed into a physical sanctuary for kids and kids-at-heart situated in the heart of Shangri-La Plaza, Ortigas.

Here’s why you should check it out!

Before Puddy Rock, Daddy Jim and Mommy Saab faced a lot of hurdles in raising Pancho. Those early days were tough, with Pancho spending time in intensive care, setting the tone for their unique parenting journey. Guiding Pancho alongside his younger brother, Vito, provided remarkable insights that went beyond traditional parenting approaches. Watching Vito’s progress inspired Pancho, pushing him to reach milestones with great determination.

Mommy Saab openly shares that adapting everything for Pancho was crucial. Small adjustments, like carrying him often and encouraging floor exploration, significantly contributed to his development, allowing him to progress at his own rhythm.

Photos courtesy of Puddy Rock Studio on Facebook and Instagram

In one of her Instagram posts where she shared about Pancho’s big milestone, Mommy Saab said, “We have been patiently guiding him every day. Never pressuring him to do it, just gently reminding him to hold on and only let go when the item is where he wants to put it.”

Music is one, if not the most integral, part of Pancho’s development. Music is like giving young minds their workout. They get to recognize, learn, and link new ideas, just like nursery rhymes help them pick up language skills.

Photos courtesy of Puddy Rock Studio on Instagram

Mommy Saab shared, “Both our boys are very interested in music. When Pancho was a baby, he didn’t look us in the eyes, [and] didn’t smile at us, but it was when he would react to certain music and look for patterns in songs that we were able to communicate with him. What a long way we’ve come.”

Puddy Rock isn’t just about singing nursery rhymes; it’s a whole music world for kids, crafted by two music pros who brought it to life! The studio’s not just a regular spot; it’s like stepping into a world where every kid feels at home.

Photos courtesy of Puddy Rock Studio on Facebook and Instagram

Every detail, from curved corners to sensory-sensitive designs, speaks volumes about their deeper understanding that every child is unique and learns differently. They want kids to play, learn, and discover their own way through music, art, and movement – at their own pace, no labels, just good times!

The transition from a virtual space to a physical realm was organic for Puddy Rock. The newly opened studio at Shangri-La Plaza stands as a testament to their commitment to inclusivity.

Photo courtesy of Puddy Rock Studio on Facebook

Mommy Saab is not stopping at the studio doors. She’s on a mission to make inclusivity the norm, not just at Puddy Rock but everywhere! Malls, parks – she wants all kids to feel welcome, embraced, and appreciated.

So, swing by Puddy Rock Studio at Shangri-La Plaza’s East Wing, Mandaluyong City. Doors open at 11 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. – it’s where every kid finds their groove!

Have you been in Puddy Rock Studio? Tell us what you love most about it in the comments section!