Narrative

Why is Music so Important? Music provides children with the opportunity to learn while having fun. Children will remember information best once they have applied it to their lives; music, movement, and dance encourage this application to occur. Therefore, music, movement, and/or dance will be incorporated into each day's lessons.

 Transitions from one activity to the next are just one small example of the impact that one song can have in a child's life. During our transition times, we may sing songs that reinforce information we have been learning that day. Specifically, if we have been learning about the solar system, we may sing a fingerplay about the planets while walking from circle time to the desks. Movement and dance can be used as a time for children to "get their wiggles out" and explore the ways their body can move. By incorporating music, movement, and dance into the transitions throughout the day, children are constantly learning, listening, and following directions.

We will continue to be creative in the ways we integrate music into the curriculum. Standard eight of the MENC Standards states that children will understand relationships between music, the other arts, and disciplines outside the arts. Therefore, as teachers, we will shy away from focusing on just one subject at a time. We will incorporate music and the arts into all academic lessons. Here are a few examples of how children can be active learners: Create a story and illustration using new vocabulary  Act out an event in history  Engage in a song and dance that illustrates the water cycle  Use different tempos while practicing counting and patterns It is our hope that the children will take home the information they have learned and share it with you. We will encourage the students to communicate specifically any musical or movement concepts they have learned throughout the day. If you have any ideas or questions on how to further support your child's education, please let us know.