Whether it is a lively dance tune or a gentle lullaby, even babies feel the
force of music -- both emotionally and physically. Throughout the early
childhood years, children are learning to do new things with their bodies.
Young children are also learning that movement can communicate messages and
represent actions.
Most young children usually are right at home with movement. They begin to
learn about the world by acting on objects and people, and "they think with
their bodies" well before they think with words. This is why body movement
activities are not only fun for young children but also a good opportunity for
them to solve problems. Some children may have difficulty responding to
questions which call for verbal responses. But when questions call for
movement, children aren't limited by their verbal abilities.
Through playing instruments children begin to differentiate sound and learn
to match rhythm to marching steps or the music of a recording.
Singing and playing music can set a mood in the classroom. Quiet soothing
music helps to calm and relax children, while lively marching tunes rouse them
for an energetic clean-up time. Music and movement are also social activities
that help children feel a part of the group. |