Looking for something to do with your little one that’s both educational and fun? Check out a kids music class. You may learn a thing or two yourself.
Mommy-and-me (or as I like to call them, kids of all ages) music classes can be a great way to get out of the house and introduce your little one to the world of music. And while it may seem that the intricacies of music would be lost on an 8 month old, the reality is that there is much more learning happening in a music class than music. Children are exposed to language, rhythm, sound, movement, a classroom setting and myriad other social skills. Here are some of the benefits of attending a music class.
Regular participation in a class setting helps children to learn the structure and routine of classes as well as helps them build upon the skills they learn each week. This repetition is especially important early on, as children learn the routine of class. They become comfortable knowing what to expect, and are able to open up and focus on absorbing the lessons of the day.
If you have a young child of your own, or have spent any time with one, I’ll venture to guess that you’ve been impressed by the way they absorb and retain language. Music seems to enhance this – children remember and recite lyrics of songs long before they are able to form complete sentences themselves. We often combine song with movement in music class, further strengthening the child’s understanding of language.
And boy do some of our kids need that physical outlet. It’s part of growing; part of learning what their bodies can do and what to do with all their (enviable) kid energy. Music class offers a structured opportunity to get that energy out. Whether it’s a free dance period, or a more organized movement song, kids move to the music in a way that is natural to them and that gives them a chance to explore the capabilities of their growing bodies.
Some kids in my music class are movers: from day one they dance, interact, and move about the room. And some kids (including my own children) are studiers. They may be described as shy. They sit with their grown-up, and study what’s happening. I think it’s fantastic. They see their peers move and participate. They listen to the teacher, careful not to miss a word or a note. And even if their classroom participation is minimal, time and time again I receive reports from parents on how the child takes home what they’ve seen in class: they imitate the teacher, they dance and sing, they play their guitar, they relive the class from start to finish. Each child has his or her way of experiencing the class but what I’ve learned is that they all are taking it in and learning from it, even if it’s not apparent in the classroom.
One of the only activities that activates all areas of the brain
Promotes the development of language, sequencing, and memory
Connects the mind and the body so they can work together
Positive effect on mood – can be uplifting or calming depending on the beat/tone
Helps reduce overstimulation and can promote sensory organization
Introduces concepts such as rhythm, volume control
Check out a kids music class with your little one. You’ll be amazed at how they learn and grow.
(Aaron Jones performs as Mr. Aaron for families and kids all over the East Coast. In Concord, he runs Rattlebox Studio, with music classes for kids up to age five. Learn more at rattleboxstudio.com and mraaronmusic.com.)