Music is an awe inspiring art which has the ability to
teach. Young children are drawn to various music and it can serve as a natural
motivator within classrooms. My preschoolers love to move and groove! We dance
to traditional children’s songs as well as classic forties jazz. Through these
experiences we are exercising and learning.
In the classroom and at home, we can share the expressive
nature of music, which can represent an individual and a culture. Additionally,
music can impact language development. Child friendly lyrics can teach
vocabulary, sentence structure, content, and mathematics.
I encourage you to share a variety of music with your
children. The following are interactive games, crafts, and clips, which
encourage you and your child to explore different sounds and movement. Check
out music from different cultures, and do not forget the traditionally dances.
Ask you children what they think about the music? Do they like it? How does it
make them feel?
TAKE A LOOK: Music as Expression
Zoe’s Dance Moves (http://pbskids.org/sesame/games/zoe_dance_moves.html)
Sesame Street’s adorable Zoe loves to dance and you and your
child get to select her dance moves and costumes! The musical arrangements
include a mix of classical, Asian, and rock. As you listen, point out the
different sounds presented. This interactive game displays how music can be a
form of expression, similar to verbally communicating and art. As a note for
parents, this game is free and does require your assistance to play the game,
because the player is required to click and follow simple steps.
TAKE A LOOK: Music from Around the World
An exciting way to see the differences in music is to explore
cultures around the world. Each country and people have unique traditions! The
following videos are just the beginning of an exciting world of music.
Flamenco Dancing in Barcelona, Spain (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wiuH7yOMCVo)
Flamenco dancing combined with a singular guitar is a
classic performance in Spain.
Native American Dance (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0C_KyDnVzlY)
This traditional Native American dance is performed with
traditional costume and chants.
TAKE A LOOK: Make an Instrument (http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/crafts-by-type/music-instruments/musical-instruments/)
Making instruments only requires a few simple materials and
time, and the experience is priceless. The website posts links to
child-friendly instruments appropriate for a variety of ages. From a wooden harmonica
to a spin drum and tambourine, children will love to create the instrument and
music. The fun does not end with the craft. Put on a show, march in a parade,
and enjoy the expression of music!
I agree that children love to dance. I was interning in a kindergarten class, and was told to let the students watch a movie on Indian pow wows. My teacher said it would be boring to the children, but that it had good information. When the women started playing the drums in the video, all of the students stood up and danced. They loved it. They love to dance and are drawn to music.
ReplyDeleteKids do love music, almost as much as they love not being still (ha ha). What could be better than putting the two together? I can think of many timeless kids' songs that have movements associated with them ("If You're Happy and You Know It" is a good example). I love that you focus on learning through music and movement. Thanks for sharing these links, too.
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