Here are some tips on how you can make the most out of your kindermusik class:

• Scaffold with your child.
  Instead of telling your child what to do, lead your child to discover what to do. When we are exploring egg shakers together in class, it’s so easy to say to your child, tap your egg shaker on your knees or tap on your shoulders. But your child isn’t getting the opportunity to problem solve when we give the answer so readily. Instead, try saying, I like how you are tapping on your knees, now can you find another body part to tap on? Or, how else can you make your egg shaker move across the floor?
• Model active listening.
  By modelling, you are helping to support your child’s learning by showing them how to listen. SInce listening is a learned behaviour, it is important that we begin by showing them how to do so. When we are quietly listening together and using our facial expressions to show our enthusiasm, we are actively engaging our children in listening along with us. An important step in listening skills.
• Be present during story time.
  Help your child’s focused attention on the story by focussing your attention on the story. Another great example of modelling behaviour. Join in closely around the story blanket and help create a beautiful, calm, story loving environment for nurturing our young readers.
• Become fully engaged in the classroom experience.
  The more you participate, the more your child will participate. Sometimes grown-ups are asked to do things in kindermusik that may be outside of their comfort zone as an adult, like crawling on their hands and knees or rolling on the floor. Did you know crawling increases the connection between the two hemispheres of the brain and that rolling actually helps your child develop balance and coordination as well as brain development? But some children hesitate to participate because their parents hesitate to participate. It’s definitely more likely that your child will feel emotionally supported and confident if you are fully engaged. Setting the stage for support, bonding, communication and confidence that will carry your child through childhood, the teenage years and into adulthood.
• Sing out, regardless of your ability.
  There is no vocal judgement in kindermusik class. We are all here to enjoy and appreciate music. Your baby/child loves you and your voice no matter what. So sing out, embrace the music and help your child develop a confident love of one of the most amazing and powerful gifts we can give our children – music.