We know that exploring music in the early childhood and pre-school years has many benefits. Exposure to music ignites all areas of a child’s brain. It also contributes todevelopping intellect, social interaction, emotional regulation, fine and gross motor skills, language, literacy, communication, confidence, and much more!
But what are the benefits for the adult who participates in a music class with a child? Suprisingly, no matter how you choose to participate, there are many! After having taught over 500 early childhood music classes, here’s what I’ve learned:
Social Interaction
Not just a concern for the kids, social interaction is important for adults as well. In a post-covid world, many of us have become quite content to hibernate and not implicate ourselves in unnecessary social interactions. Already, so many simple connections have been eliminated from our lives. We don’t chat with the teller at the bank, or get to know the grocer or postal delivery person as our parents or grandparents may have done. And while yes, we connect using a different medium, there is something to be said for including more purposeful, in-person social engagement in our lives.
In surveys conducted of my general music and ukulele classes at the West Island Women’s Centre, 70% of particpants report feeling happier, and that their social networks have grown, simply by attending classes.
Friendships
While making friends may not be the primary motivation for attending a music class, it is often one of the many happy results. Signing up for a music class is an action that demonstrates interest in investing in your child’s development. You’re taking steps to explore an artistic medium, learn from an educator, and have fun with your little one, and it fits your schedule! It is highly likely that other participants are there for some (if not all) of same reasons, which means you already have common ground.
Muisc class is also a fun way to get to know more about someone. Some grownups participate with unabashed abandon, effortlessly getting silly, dancing and singing loudly. Some adults prefer to take a more observational role and encourage their child in more subtle ways. It is said opposites attract, but whatever you look for in a friendship, there are many different kinds of people in your music class.
I met one of my closest friends in a parent/tot music class when my son was just six months old. He’s almost 12 now and my friendship has been one that has grown stronger with each passing year. Again, while making friends may not be your primary goal in attending a music class, who knows what you might find when you’re not looking!
Discovering New Interests
A good music class will expose you to many diffent musical concepts, genres, ideas and instruments. Like a brilliant children’s book that engages audiences on different levels, a music class should do the same. That means there is just as much for the adults to discover as for the little ones!
A new interest could include passion for an instrument; ukulele anyone? You may also receive information about a cultural activity, concert or event you could attend with or without your little one. You may even learn about new studies recently published, or books you’d like to read. If you’re taking a class that is offered by a community centre or city, it’s possible they offer more classes.
Connecting with your Little-one
I remember standing in a grocery store line that was miles long with three young children growing more restless by the second. The whining was reaching an apex and the tantrums were seconds away when I started to softly sing The Hokey Pokey. The change was immediate. My children were instantly engaged and distracted. They put each hand in, then their feet, then we started to get silly and put in lips and eyebrows, knees and any other body part I could think of. Other folks in the line smiled, some even participated as we sang the minutes away till it was our turn at the cash.
Music classes tend to invite you to explore your comfort zone. Singing in a group was always something that made me feel very exposed and vulnerable. Singing in my children’s music classes was no exception. However, singing and dancing weekly in a warm, inviting, environment with a patient teacher allowed me to develop some confidence. This confidence followed me home, where I sang and danced more often with my children. I felt like my toolbox of muscal activities expanded, while I learned which games and songs each of my kids preferred simultaneously. And yes, that toolbox saved me in that endless line-up; I will be forever thankful to that music teacher!
Learning Music
Learning music theory, rhythm, and multicultural traditions may not seem like topics you’ll come across in an early childhood music class, but have you ever participated in a drum circle? Ever tapped out syllables of names or words? Ever kept a beat while listening to music? Not only do music classes focus on foundational elements of the art of music, but they often introduce new instruments, genres, history, and so much more. While the infants and toddlers may not retain the finer details of this exposure, you can absolutely take advantage of your professional teacher’s knowledge to ask questions, learn, and appreciate.
From the perspective of repertoire, you will also likely be exposed to new songs. Perhaps even in multiple languages. If you’re looking to expand your child’s favourite tunes, here’s an opportunity to learn some new favourites. We never stop learning!
Support Local
By taking a music class in your neighbourhood you are supporting a community initiative. Whether it’s a city-run community centre, independent non-profit, library, or private entreprenneur, your money is invested in bringing the art of music to more people. The class is also likely taught by a musician, therapist, librarian, educator or artist who greatly appreciates your partcipation and support! You can continue to support these initiatives by liking and following their social media and spreading the word about classes you’ve loved!
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