Each day should begin with music, usually a patriotic song. When group time begins the morning, review the calendar with the "Days of the Week" song. Routine activities, such as numbers and phonics, could include music. A favorite song for numbers is "Johnny Works with One Hammer", not only involves the children with counting, but allows a time for movement. For a circle time lesson, including music, please click here.
The class can learn music from different cultures. Johnette Downing, a popular children's music from the Cajun culture, always gets the kids excited and moving. Exposure to Christian, folk, jazz and traditional children's songs, gives an opportunity to enjoy all aspects of music such as moving, listening, singing, playing and creating.
Music in the kindergarten classroom helps develop the elements such as space (sharing and personal), shape (bending), time (slow, fast), force (tiptoes, stamping feet, marching), flow (robot, skating, flying like an eagle), and rhythm (clapping, rhythm sticks, beating a drum). Implement exercise with music as children stretch and bend. Listening to music during art soothes and inspires creativity. Mood altering music, such as peaceful classical songs, relaxes and prepares the children for rest or nap time. Sign language can be used when singing. With repetition and consistency, the children will learn and retain and perhaps be able to sing and sign for children with hearing difficulties in school. When practiced throughout the year, this could be presented to the parents at the end of the school year graduation ceremony.
The teacher who focuses on the importance of music, will help build self esteem in his or her students. Even the shy, nonparticipating child, will gain confidence with time. Rather than reprimanding the child after misbehaving, gain control of the moment by turning on the music and getting the entire class involved. You have diverted the problem and set the stage for proper behavior. A tip for the teacher: Always have a CD player and music ready and available to use immediately. A helpful book I have enjoyed and taken many ideas from is Experiences in Movement by, Rae Pica.
For a fun Kindergarten music activity, please click here.
