I am amazed at how the Kindermusik, Encore on Keys and Musichoir programs are developing musical and very happy children! Throughout the year, you may be required to decide on which class is right for your child or family as your child changes and grows. You may even question if Musikids is right for you and your family! This is OK!

So, consider the following as I make sure that our programs cover ALL learning domains.

Musikids programs do not just concentrate on the physical or the musical but through using music, drama, dancing, instrument play, language and literacy as vehicles, we make sure language, social, emotional, cognitive thinking, physical and musical areas are taken care of. That is why it is not uncommon for children to learn to talk who come to us not talking, or motor skills to improve in children who have physical challenges.

The progress we see is the result of what happens when a new song, rhyme or activity is introduced and repeated (or varied slightly) with each repetition. When a new activity is introduced, new neural wiring (within the brain) is created. When repeated (with slight variations) at Musikids, in the car whilst out and about or at home, neural connections are strengthened.

Through movement also, pathways are also being insulated which speeds up the processing speed between brain and body. This happens while we learn through enjoyment when singing, dancing and playing because of what children experience in the Musikids classroom! In short, a regular Musikids Music and Movement class helps the brain and body to reach its full potential. As far as I know, no other program does this in the same way.

In addition, a child’s first great teacher is their mother, father or primary carer.  It is for this reason that the 45 to 60 minute classes includes parent or carer participation for part or the entire lesson depending on the age group and requirements of the program.

Approximately 185 children are enrolled in Musikids programs each week. There has to be good reason why classes continue to grow at Musikids and the proof is in what we see and hear at our end of year concerts and other public performances for our little ones. Musikids is one proud owner of musical and happy children, not to mention Mums and Dads! Once you step over the Musikids threshold, you are always a Musikids family. I take pleasure observing it reciprocated when seeing the kids before, during and after each lesson, each day, each week.

1. Pass on your love of Music: If you love Music, chances are your child will too. If your child enjoys Music, he or she will have a desire for Music that is a foundation for lifelong learning.
2. Make Music with your child: while listening to Music is great, it is important that your child grow up in a family that makes Music. Talent is not required – enthusiasm and enjoyment are! Hum or sing along with the radio, or improvise instruments such as drums and shakers from items around the home.
3. Play is a Child’s Work: If it is not fun, your child will lose interest. A child’s first experience of Music ‘lessons’ – whether in a class or at home, should be full of delight and achievement. Focus on a musical child, rather that a child musician.
4. Music Everyday: If some musical play is built into your child’s daily life, they will grow up never having known a time without Music. Being unable to imagine a life without Music would be a never-ending gift for your child!
5. The Voice is our First Instrument: It is also versatile and portable! The willingness to sing, and the ability to sing (stay in tune) is one of the best things you can give your child. Enjoyable in itself, it is also beneficial when learning any instrument.
6. Choose Toy Instruments Carefully: Not all toy instruments are pitched, eg. They make noise, but not necessarily the notes a’, b’ and c’. If you do not like the sound a toy makes, chances are it will not be helping your child’s musical ear to develop.
7.  Offer a Variety of Musical Styles: Very young children are completely open to different musical styles. Now is the time to introduce your child to classical music, pop music, jazz, blues, folk music, instrumental music, country & western music, choral music and even opera! Groups such as The Wiggles and Hi Five are great, but they are not the only music your child will enjoy.

“The fact that children can make wonderful music is not as important as the fact that music can make wonderful children” ~ Anonymous