Who We Are | A Note From Jen Neales
(OWNER + CREATIVE DIRECTOR)
It is my heart’s purpose to work with children, and have been doing so for over 25 years here in Canada and abroad. I have learned so much throughout my years, and one thing that supersedes everything else is that when children feel safe, heard, and loved just as they are – they are capable of incredible things.
I started Little Rebels in the summer of 2016. Since then, I have cultivated a team of like-minded, and talented teachers, musicians, and administrators who work with me across Toronto, Etobicoke, North York, Newmarket, Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, London, and Ottawa to bring our classes to as many families as we can.
Our main branch of programming is our Little Rebels Music and Development classes. This is probably how you know us! They’re carefully crafted and stage-specific music classes for kids 2 months - 5 years. We have classes for infants (2 months to 6 months), babies (7 months to 14 months), toddlers (15 months to 24 months), and big kids (2 years to 5 years). Our classes encourage cognitive learning, muscle development, and creative play through music and movement.
Not your average music class or song circle – this is music for kids with a twist! Our classes get kids moving, grooving, and learning – independently! We use songs inspired by Broadway, Rock ‘n’ Roll, Pop, and Motown hits, along with a few kids classics. We integrate movement and props into our classes to make it fun for the whole family. We all learn differently, which is why we use several techniques, approaches, and teaching methods, so that everyone can thrive in our classes.
In 2024 we launched our newest branch of our programming: Little Rebels Intergenerational Music Classes. We run these classes in retirement residences, senior living centres, and long term care homes. Our Intergenerational Music Classes are just as much for the kids as they are for our seniors! Incorporating safe and fun activities to engage our seniors and littles alike offers an environment of connection, curiosity, excitement, and joy. Not to mention what it does for the well-being of those experiencing loneliness in their residences. Bringing in programming for children and their grownups adds some extra love and social connectedness our elders might otherwise be missing.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, in October 2022, we lost one of our teachers, and my dear friend, to her battle with inoperable stage four glioblastoma. In her memory, we created the Samantha McLelland Community fund. This fund is dedicated to families who wouldn’t otherwise be able to access paid-for programming. Since we launched the SMCF, families from all over Ontario have generously donated knowing, just like us, how vital music is to a child’s growth and development. Please visit our Community Fund page to see how you can make a donation towards paying a class forward in Samantha’s name.
Above and beyond all else, I believe that changing the world begins with our littlest citizens, and that is why at Little Rebels we are committed to helping you raise kind, compassionate, and inclusive tiny humans. This is one small way we can help contribute to a more kind, just, and equitable society!
Family Testimonials
“I cannot say enough positive things about Little Rebels and the classes they offer. Jen is a ray of light and the classes she has developed are not only fun and entertaining, but also help with my little one’s physical and cognitive development. As a first-time mom, I found that so helpful! Her tips and explanations of why the moves are important for your kiddo’s development is invaluable. The songs are upbeat and fun and she does such a wonderful job engaging with each kid individually, even while being remote.”
- Amy
“Little Rebels is the BEST music class. It is more than "just" a music class. Jen, the owner (and my favourite teacher) truly engages each child in a loving and caring way, ensuring each one is included. I love that the program is more than just music. She works on motor development, speech, and just having fun. I love that my daughter was able to engage at 6 months old and even now at 18 months old. I HIGHLY recommend Little Rebels for children of all ages.”
- Jessica
“We love Little Rebels! My little one learned so much (as did I!). We tried a number of different activities to fill our mat leave days and Little Rebels was just the best. :) We also loved bringing 'guests' - My Little one, C’s Dad attended for the weeks he was on paternity leave, and each of the grandmas joined a class too! This was a great bright spot in our weeks. My little one is headed to daycare soon, but we hope that we can still drop in from time to time. Thanks for all you do!”