Heather Feather

I was born in Mount Pearl, Newfoundland, and now live in Montreal, Quebec, where I teach, write, record, and perform in both English and French. I once taught at the university level (I hold degrees in Music Theory and Composition, including a PhD in Music Theory), but after I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and started a family, my priorities shifted. I discovered how rewarding it is to work with younger children: writing songs that support them through their day-to-day challenges, whether social-emotional, cognitive or physical, and bringing joy to children and families along the way. Since 2022, I have been writing and recording music inspired by what I see in the classroom, with the goal of helping today's children grow into the best versions of themselves.

"Together" is primarily about inclusion, and I believe we are better when we're together: in the community, in school, and at work. As a disabled artist with multiple sclerosis, I strongly believe there is a place and a space for everyone to contribute and be valued and loved. Differences of ability, colour, culture, religion, and socioeconomic class should not define us as individuals. It's what's on the inside that counts: our hearts, our dreams, our kindness, our generosity, our ability to be a friend, and our willingness to take part. All the children in my classes and shows are taught that they are perfect exactly as they are: if we do our best to be our best selves every day, then we are at our best! So take a deep breath and give yourself a huge hug for being your best you!

I hope that this Yoto card sparks critical conversation within families and classrooms about belonging, creating welcoming spaces, the power of acts of kindness, overcoming fears and doubts, and becoming more understanding, empathetic people. I hope that children hear and internalize techniques for being kind, calming their anger and regulating their big emotions, accepting others, working through their fears, and accepting themselves and others for being exactly who they are.

Yoto, for me, is exciting as a platform designed for children without the distraction of a screen and excess visual stimulation that reminds me of my own childhood. Listening to music and stories was an integral part of my culture as a Newfoundlander. I remember waking up each morning and dragging my Winnie the Pooh record player into my toddler sister's room and playing music for her while my parents were still sleeping. I remember listening to music and stories in all settings, from being alone, to being at school, to being at family parties. Audio filling a room was a way of life, be it a record, radio, or live instruments. Yoto offers this experience to every child in today's society with a focus on the warm, togetherness, and connection that audio can bring.

The songs on this Yoto card are being re-recording in French this year, and I'm very excited about it! I am also writing more songs for littles, ditties and short tunes for everyday tasks and situations at home, daycare, and preschool.