More About the First Steps in Music Curriculum

I use the First Steps in Music curriculum, a unique introduction to musical expression and creative movement for children. The classes have been carefully designed by  Dr. John Feierabend, a national leader in early childhood education.  The musical activities are based on early childhood research related to the development of:

• Musical intelligence
• Singing skills
• Sensitivity to the beat
• Expressive movement
• Musical memory
• Preferences
• Neurological connections   

The goal of the First Steps in Music classes is to enable all children to reach their full potential through involvement in informal music and movement activities. From free play with percussion instruments to organized songs, rhymes and games, these sessions:

•  inspire children to listen, feel and move to music 
•  stimulate a child's imagination through songs and movement 
•  encourage constructive social interactions with other children and their families 
•  are incredibly fun for kids and parents.

These musical activities will prepare children for the later development of:

• accurate rhythmic skills
• accurate singing skills
• sensitivity to the expressive qualities in music.

Unlike other popular children's music programs, First Steps in Music is designed to be taught by an independent Music Specialist (I’m not part of a large corporation or a franchise). Also unique to this program is its basis in  folk and traditional songs and rhymes, which work well because of their natural melodic expressiveness, natural flow of language, and texts filled with wonder. 

Guidelines for Parents

1. Parents must participate in all Infant through Preschool class sessions (parental participation is not required in Early Elementary) so that parents learn the activities and so that the children feel comfortable and enjoy the classes more.
2. Young children will sometimes be unresponsive in class and participate more freely at home between classes. This is normal. Parents should learn the activities during class time so they can share them with their children during more receptive times at home.
3. Infants and Toddlers may roam during class as long as they do not distract other children.
4. Parents should invite a roaming child back to the group, but should not force the child to participate.
5. Please try not to talk to other adults during class. Focus on your child. Depending on the schedule, it may be possible to arrive up to 15 minutes early to socialize before class, and likewise to stay after class.
6. Do not compare one child’s accomplishments to another’s. Children develop at different rates. 
7. Plan to arrive at least 5 minutes before class starts, so we can start on time.
8. We take our shoes off for all classes, in order to keep the carpet clean for the little ones and to maintain a comfortable, home-like atmosphere.

Supplemental Materials for Parents

Tuition includes a CD of the songs and rhymes taught in class, plus a word sheet to help adults remember the activities at home.