Did you know that the process of music development parallels the process of language development? Language development starts when a child is born. You enthusiastically speak to your child in full sentences from the moment you lay eyes on her (and sometimes even earlier). Although you do not receive a response, you persist in friendly […]
JamRound™ is a unique and essential component of every Kids’ MusicRound class and many Classroom Jamboree™ lessons. We make a big fuss of dumping a giant bag of instruments and musical toys on the floor, with lots of excited vocal play. We turn on their favorite upbeat song, and the music play begins. It’s one […]
Every year at this time, our music teachers have the same conversation: Why are we asking preschoolers to perform when we know at least one will cry over the experience? While some children love to be the center of attention and shine in front of a crowd, others are at their best playing in a […]
“No, I don’t want to do that!” Have you heard this in your classroom? We all want children to have fun while learning, but what happens when fun goes awry? Older preschool children enjoy overseeing their decisions about themselves and are not afraid to tell you. I remember teaching a 5-year-old class and hearing the […]
I love celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with my classes. Children come to school dressed in green, the leprechaun creates some silly magic, and we have a fun-filled day of learning! Of course, this is also a day that requires active classroom management and creativity to foster the types of engagement we want. Below, you’ll find […]
As we embrace the dawn of 2024, the lingering pressure of family New Year’s resolutions beckons, with the familiar goals of sharing more family meals, limiting screen time, and reigning in the ever-expanding realm of scattered toys. Yet, rather than succumb to the overwhelming checklist that often leads to abandonment, let’s pivot our attention to […]
Music is everywhere! It’s a universal language that unites us, lifting our spirits with its irresistible rhythm. From chuckling at a toddler’s endearing dance moves to the joy of children belting out their favorite tunes, music becomes a vibrant part of their growth. There are numerous benefits of music education in early childhood. It’s […]
Have you ever noticed that the simplest item in your house can become the most amazing toy for music play? Wrapping paper can be crinkled, torn, and turned into confetti. Paper cups can turn into drums, balls, and hats. Even a simple cardboard box can become a rocket ship or hiding place! This creativity is the […]
Modeling is such a powerful tool in early childhood learning – including music education. Have you noticed children quickly like to imitate what they see? What’s at work in the brain when this happens? In the early 1990s, neuroscientist Giacomo Rizzolatti, MD and his colleagues, from the University of Parma, first discovered mirror neurons in […]
It’s here! Summertime is finally here! With school almost over it is time to let the summer planning begin! Summer is a time to soak in the family fun time and really create memories that will last a lifetime. Perhaps you want to take a day trip to the beach or a family adventure to […]