You know that you want your children to participate in a musical program, but you aren't sure how to go about finding the best programs. How do you know where your child will fit in and where they will learn the most? This can be difficult depending on where you live, but there are some tips that apply equally to everyone. Use these tips as guides to find the best children's music program in your area:
1. Locate local programs in your area, leaving no stone unturned.
The first thing you have to do is learn about the different children's musical programs in your local area. Look for community based programs as well as programs offered through the school system or private businesses.
Make sure you are aware of every possible program that could give your child the musical exposure they need.
2. Consider age limits for each program.
You can eliminate some programs by checking into the age limits on the program. Those designed for young children will often cut off at the age of 8 or 9 while other programs may be geared more for older children.
Age limits are important because you want to make sure the experiences in the program will be appropriate to the age of your child. An older child exposed to music lessons at a level for smaller children will get bored while younger children can feel overwhelmed if the experiences are above their cognitive and physical abilities.
3. Determine the level of parent involvement allowed in each program.
If you have young children you may want to participate in some of the music experiences. If you have older children you may prefer a safe place where you can drop them off and go have time to yourself before picking them up again.
Whatever type of involvement you want to have in the program, make sure the program selected is compatible. If you have a small infant or baby you should be prepared to participate in the program. Think of it as a bonding experience.
4. Make sure hands-on musical experiences will be delivered.
Listening to others create music is beneficial for children, but when they are allowed to put their own hands on instruments and create their own music they develop a deeper love for music. It is important that the program you select exposes your child to a variety of musical experiences. This includes hands-on experiences with a variety of instruments.
A variety of musical styles should be explored through the program as well. They should be able to hear different forms of music and determine what they enjoy and do not enjoy.
5. Make sure the location is convenient and fees are affordable.
Finally, make sure that you can get to the music program easily and that they have classes that fit your schedule. Make sure that you can afford the fees or check if they have financial assistance for some participants.
The best music program will fit into your schedule while delivering rich musical experiences for your child. Ideally, this program will fit your child's age range so they can stay in the same program for at least a couple years. This allows them to continually learn and improve as they grow.
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The content is our own opinion and does not necessarily reflect the views of Kindermusik or Kindermusik Asia.
