Every class starts with a song that acknowledges each child individually. Singing hello to every child is a wonderful way to acknowledge his/her presence as an individual and as a member of the group. In the beginning of the semester, we will alternate the accompanying movements as we sing hello. Clapping, waving, pointing, and tapping are just some examples. As you probably know, toddler-hood is the time of physical exploration and development, and these are just a few examples of the many accompanying motions that are popular among young children.
After a few weeks now, the children have warmed up to the activities and the environment, and now I ask him/her how he/she would like to be greeted. Many children, particularly the young ones, respond with the motion of clapping, tapping, pointing, etc. instead of responding verbally. Rather than immediately copying your child as I might with a toddler, I will ask him/her what we usually call that motion, capitalizing upon the three-year-old’s interest in language. Upon hearing the answer, I will repeat it to the class saying, “Let’s tap hello to Evan.” By singing “Come on everyone, tap with Evan” all the while tapping on our knees, we are all reinforcing your child’s verbal understanding, pairing the appropriate label, which may be new to some children, with the already familiar movement. This is also giving your child the opportunity to direct the actions of the entire class through the use of language…what a powerful message this simple activity provides!
Just another positive part of the Musikgarten curriculum that reinforces our kids in so many ways! It is such a neat program! I love teaching it!
