Educator Spotlight Archives - Page 3 of 3 - Minds On Music

Educator Spotlight: Helen Peterson – Kindermusik of the Valley

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Regular Blogger Theresa Case brings us our monthly feature, the Educator Spotlight. This month, we introduce Helen Peterson, director of Kindermusik of the Valley in Burnsville, Minnesota. Helen lives near the area of the state known as the Land of 1000 Lakes, but from what we hear of Miss Helen’s Kindermusik kids, it should be called Land of 1000 Smiles!
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: How long have you been teaching Kindermusik?

HP: 25 years

TC: What do your Kindermusik kids call you?

HP: Miss Helen

TC: How do your Kindermusik kids (or families) describe you?

HP: I think as loving, welcoming, cheerful, understanding, and knowledgeable.

TC: What year did you first open your business?

1991

TC: What do you feel has made your studio business a success?

HP: As most businesses that have been around this long, we have had ups and downs – no matter where we are, it is excellent teaching, a great understanding and acceptance of children, loving the community, and really just a lot of hard work!

TC: What are some of the goals you have for your business?

HP: I am looking at a 3 year plan right now to take Kindermusik on a growth trajectory back to 300 students. I am also stepping into the Kindermusik@Schools market with increased energy. Too many kids at daycare are missing out – we want to serve them![/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/182839856″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]TC: What makes Kindermusik of the Valley such a special place?

HP: Our teachers! I am so blessed to partner with such a special, committed, brilliant and loving educators. They do amazing work and love, love, LOVE our families every day! Much gratitude to our wonderful Kindermusik of the Valley educators – Robin Lamoreaux, Tina Egli, Merry Sawdey, and Summer Jothen!

TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik song to sing?

HP: Parrot Talk

TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik dance to lead?

HP: Oh so many! Tants Tants, Pirates Treasure Dance (formerly Sailors Hornpipe), Dance Little Baby, Up Up in the Sky, Bingo – any dance that goes into the middle and comes back out.

TC: Describe a teaching experience or favorite Kindermusik family that has impacted you as a teacher.

HP: There are so many beautiful families who have come to Kindermusik of the Valley studio over the years but have to say the experience that has been the most impactful for me as a teacher was the work Sherry Grimsby and I shared for 20 years teaching Kindermusik to the underserved and economically challenged families in North Minneapolis. We started there before Kindermusik school programs had been created so we adapted Beginnings and Growing with Kindermusik for the students. It was here where I first understood the power of Kindermusik as a therapy. The incredible value of giving children in crisis the ability to calm themselves using music, that playing musical stop and go games with children who had not developed any inhibitory control because of their circumstances would be something that could save them one day. Even though the teaching was incredibly hard, loving the children, singing with them, rocking with them, playing and giving them so many choices and chances taught us so much and really made me the teacher I am today.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: If you could share one tip with a new Kindermusik educator, what would it be?

HP: Focus on knowing and loving the parents of your students. Be knocked out by how much they love their children and what they are providing for them. Not every parent does it, those that come to Kindermusik are something special.

TC: If you had to name just one secret to success in the Kindermusik classroom, what would it be?

HP: Falling in love with every parent and student in the room.

TC: What’s the most touching thing that’s ever happened to you as a Kindermusik teacher?

HP: It is when a parent who had missed class earlier in the day because of an emergency that was very upsetting, came by later in the afternoon saying that she knew if she could just be in the Kindermusik room with me for a few minutes she would feel better.

TC: What’s your favorite part of teaching Kindermusik?

HP: Oh! It is definitely when I catch glimpses of pride from parents for their children, when they are surprised by how much their child has understood and been creative with the activities. AND – when I see children feeling proud of themselves as they concentrate, listen, create, and make beautiful music.[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Helen Peterson holds a BS degree in Music Education from the University of Minnesota. Helen taught elementary and high school band before starting a family and her Kindermusik business. Helen has served on the Kindermusik Educators Association national board from 1999 to 2003 and has continued to serve on the international conference committee.

– Photo credits: Aaron Sawdey[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

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Educator Spotlight: Carol Stringham

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Joy. Connection. Family. Growth. Heart. These are the values embodied by Carol Stringham and her lovely team at Song of the Heart Studios in Salt Lake City, Utah. Song of the Heart Studios was established in 1998 by Carol Stringham. Since then, her studio has grown to include over 350 students with a team of five talented Kindermusik educators, each dedicated to providing a spectacular experience in learning for the families at Song of the Heart. It comes as no surprise that Song of the Heart Studios is an award winning Conductor’s Circle Maestro program ranked among the top ten studios nationwide and the top 1% worldwide. Carol describes the last 18 years teaching Kindermusik as nothing short of amazing.[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: How did Song of the Heart Studios get its start?

CS: I opened in 1998 in the family room of my home where I taught for 3 years. When the parking got a little crazy I moved into a ballet studio where I rented space and hired 3 teachers. We were there for 10 years. For the last 5 years we have enjoyed our own space with 3 studios and a team of 6. We are so grateful for our own space because we love to constantly add new instruments, props, and puppets. We’re always discovering something new to add to our collections that we know our families will enjoy. We also have a small satellite studio about 30 minutes away from our main location.

TC: What makes Song of the Heart Studios such a special place?

CS: I would definitely say our team! We have a talented family of educators but more importantly we have a dedicated, loyal, loving, encouraging group of women who strive to do good in the world. And they do. Every time they sit on the floor with Kindermusik families, they do good. I am so grateful to learn from and to work side by side with each of them.

TC: What do your Kindermusik kids call you?

CS: They call me Ms. Carol

TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik song to sing?

CS: I love ALL of the hello songs because when I open my mouth to sing it means class is starting![/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/AEirM6FYGI0″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik dance to lead?

CS: I adore all of the Young Child dances but I think my favorite is Heel and Toe Polka. It’s such an accessible dance for this age group and there’s nothing like having the kids teach their grown-ups the dance. Circle dances are such a beautiful way to create community and bond with friends and family.

TC: What’s your favorite part of teaching Kindermusik?

CS: There are so many favorites in teaching Kindermusik. But, if I could only choose one, it would be witnessing the power of Kindermusik to build family bonds. At our studio we say that Kindermusik is joy, connection, growth, and family time all wrapped up in a musical package. There’s nothing we love more than seeing the JOY as families grow closer, or witnessing the CONNECTION as parents really come to understand and support their children, or watching the GROWTH that both children and parents exhibit. And it is such a privilege to design and provide the unparalleled FAMILY TIME where all are together in a spirit of love and encouragement. We have a favorite quote at our studio that we give to all of our parents. It says “There are no days of our childhood that we live so fully as those we spend with our mothers and fathers in play.” To be able to facilitate that experience for our families is our joy and our best work. I feel immeasurable gratitude for the opportunity.

TC: What’s the most touching thing that’s ever happened to you as a Kindermusik teacher?

CS: Oh my gosh, there are so many! One touching time was when we had a Kindermusik toddler pass away in a tragic accident. The moms in the class came together to comfort and support the grieving mother with thoughtful gifts, cards, and attendance at his funeral.[/vc_column_text][vc_media_grid element_width=”6″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1471552518163-6d90f666-7fcd-0″ include=”9229,9227″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][blockquote cite=”Carol Stringham”]People first. Always.[/blockquote][vc_column_text]

TC: What are some of the funnier moments you’ve had as a Kindermusik teacher?

CS: Some of the funny moments – the time a Kindermusik daddy lifted his little guy up over his head and the baby promptly sent a waterfall of spit up all over Dad’s head and into his mouth. There was also the time when one of our toddlers lost her drawers as we were doing a circle dance. She just didn’t want to let go of the hands that were holding hers! Like many Kindermusik teachers who have been doing this a long time, we have a joke in my family that we can’t go ANYWHERE without running into a Kindermusik family, even Disneyland but mostly Costco!

TC: Describe a favorite Kindermusik family that has impacted you as a teacher.

CS: I have a family whose 4 children have gone through our program from beginning to end. They have been a part of our studio for 14 years, with their youngest beginning Young Child in a few weeks. They credit Kindermusik with so much of the good in their lives and constantly express gratitude for the difference it has made. They credit Kindermusik with teaching mom and dad how to be better parents, with their children’s work ethic, with their school success, their musical success, and most importantly with their family bond. Amy, the mama, tells me that some of the happiest moments she has ever had with her children have been in my Kindermusik class. That has to have been one of the loveliest things anyone has ever said to me.

TC: What are some of the goals you have for your business?

CS: For a good long while, I thought I wanted to continue grow bigger. Now, I realize that I want to sustain and maintain while providing our families with such a stellar experience that they will feel the impact in their lives for years to come.

TC: If you could share one tip with a new Kindermusik educator, what would it be?

CS: Jump in! Try and put any fears you may have aside and have the courage to move forward onto this meaningful, life-changing path. You will make a difference.

TC: Do you have a favorite inspirational quote?

CS: I have so many! The one that immediately comes to mind is “Children are the only future the human race has. Teach them well.” Another favorite is “All I really need is love in my family and a song in my heart.” Raffi This quote was part of the inspiration for the name of our studio.

TC: If you had to name just one secret to success in the Kindermusik classroom, what would it be?

CS: People first. Always. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Educator Spotlight: Shirley Boening

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Theresa Case interviews Shirley Boening, Kindermusik Educator from College Station, Texas.[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text]TC: How long have you been teaching Kindermusik?
SB: We first opened our business in 1989, so it’s been 27 years this past May that I’ve been running my Kindermusik business and teaching.

TC: What do your Kindermusik kids call you?
SB: Mrs. Shirley

TC: What’s your favorite part of teaching Kindermusik?
SB: My favorite part of teaching Kindermusik is knowing that what I am teaching is changing lives. I am making a difference in children’s physical, cognitive, emotional, and musical lives. That’s a pretty heady thought.

TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik song to sing?
SB: Oh, my, there are so many! I love “Morning Song”. I always have so much fun with pictures of animals and puppets when singing this with my classes. I love “Walk Along Rover”. There are just too many to name. I especially love the rocking songs “Skye Boat Song”, “The Water is Wide” and most of all,“Turtle Dove”. Listening to these always makes me a bit teary eyed while watching the lovely bonding time happening between the parents and children.[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/Rp1ZU-V1WgA”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik dance to lead?
SB: I love all the many Cuddle & Bounce dances, and the parents love them, too. With the Wiggle & Grow crowd I love “Jing Jang”. And in Young Child, dancing to “Old Lady No Nose” and “Heel and Toe Polka” never gets old. So fun!

TC: What’s the funniest OR most touching thing that’s ever happened to you as a Kindermusik teacher?
SB: The most recent funny happening is that one morning I was so preoccupied with thinking about the studio and what I had to do that day that I showed up for class wearing unmatched shoes! Didn’t notice until class time when I looked down at my feet while slipping off my shoes. Thank goodness we wear socks in class!

TC: Describe a teaching experience or favorite Kindermusik family that has impacted you as a teacher. SB: All of the families who have come through our doors have shaped the teacher I am today. And, I am constantly impacted by the children and parents we serve. The children and families have given me so much through the years and it is very humbling.

TC: What makes Kindermusik of College Station – Bryan such a special place?
SB: Our Values. We strive to make every child and every parent who enters our studio feel welcomed and special. And, we create a joyful community in which we nurture each child’s love of music through a creative, warm atmosphere. Our ultimate goal for our students is to give them a quality musical foundation, and to inspire within them a lifelong love of music.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: If you had to name just one secret to success in the Kindermusik classroom, what would it be?

SB: Be prepared 150% ! If overly prepared, one can handle the curve balls that inevitably come one’s way in class. The words can go on automatic pilot while thinking about how to connect with a parent or child; how to change the lesson plan to accommodate the runner, the child who has just burst into tears, or the late-comer; or how to adjust the next activity because you intuitively know how it was planned is not going to work with this particular group today. Preparedness gives flexibility to teach the class with success.

TC: What do you feel has made your studio business a success?
SB: An absolute passion in bringing the best Kindermusik experience possible to every child and every parent who walks through our door. In addition, I have always been very fortunate to have a strong team on board. I am particularly indebted to a dear friend, Chris Borchardt, who has taught with me for the past 21 years and who has been very instrumental in helping make the studio a success.

TC: What are some of the goals you have for your business?
SB: My short term goal is to increase our numbers and to hire an administrative assistant to allow me to have more time to work on the business in ways I never seem to have enough time for. Long term goals are to position the studio so that I will be able to cut back on administrative and teaching duties and to eventually sell the studio in the future when the time is right.

TC: What’s something new and exciting that’s happening with your business?
SB: Having a business coach. After reading Facebook posts about Chantelle Bruinsma Duffield’s Studio Expansion Program last year, watching her webinars for Kindermusik educators, and seeing her in action last October at the Maestro Conference, I decided to join The Studio Expansion Program. Once I delved into the SEP a bit, I knew that I needed to sign up for Studio Squared in order to have more one on one time with Chantelle if my team and I were going to get our numbers moving up once more. In November, I joined Studio Squared. Chantelle has been fabulous and through her careful guidance and my team’s strong support and hard work, we are seeing a turnaround in our studio’s numbers. Our summer enrollment has been 23% more than last summer. And, for September we are setting our fall goal at 36% more than September 2015.

TC: If you could share one tip with a new Kindermusik business owner, what would it be?
SB: If I were starting over and wanting to quickly grow a larger program, knowing what I know now, I would consult with a business coach from day one. I think the money spent would be earned back posthaste and would be a sound investment in the future of the business.

TC: What are some of your hobbies?
SB: More than anything, I love spending time with my husband, our 2 sons and daughter-in-law, and our three grandchildren. The highlight of every summer is having the two older grandchildren, Alison and Jacob, spend a week with us and attend our August week long Kindermusik camp. Jacob still attends the camp as a camper, but Alison has aged out and is now a helper at camp. Such fun!

TC: Do you have a favorite inspirational quote?
SB: This isn’t an inspirational quote, but it is my favorite quote because I passionately believe what it says with every fiber of my being. “Children must receive musical instruction as naturally as food, and with as much pleasure as they derive from a ball game… and this must happen from the beginning of their lives.” – Leonard Bernstein[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Educator Spotlight: Jessica Solares

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: How long have you been teaching Kindermusik?

JS: Since 2008

TC: What year did you first open your business?

JS: Also in 2008. My husband Luis and I had been teaching music lessons at other studios for about 8 years when we decided to open our own place. Besides Kindermusik, I teach voice, piano, and violin. Luis is a guitar teacher.

TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik song to sing?

JS: Sail Away – it has such a beautiful chorus and I love “flying” all the babies to the middle of the circle! My daughter loves Skinnamarink and Drifting (I was teaching that unit while pregnant with her and she has always loved that song, so I’ve sang it to her every night and at every nap since she was still in the hospital!)

TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik dance to lead?

JS: Tants Tants Yiddelech for sure – it’s so grand! Love Somebody is another favorite, I love all the adults scooping up their children to say, “Love somebody and it’s you, you, you!”

TC: What’s your favorite part of teaching Kindermusik?

JS: Teaching new parents how music affects their child’s development, and giving them tons of musical parenting tips to use with their children!

TC: If you had to name just one secret to success in the Kindermusik classroom, what would it be?

JS: Creating a warm and welcoming environment where all children and grownups feel relaxed enough to let loose, be silly, and step back to observe the children.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: What’s the funniest OR most touching thing that’s ever happened to you as a Kindermusik teacher?

JS: One of my favorite moments was in a baby class when I looked around and every adult was holding someone else’s baby! Not on purpose; they were just such a great group that everyone felt comfortable.

TC: Describe a teaching experience or favorite Kindermusik family that has impacted you as a teacher.

JS: I love seeing how well our Kindermusik graduates do in music lessons. They can sing in tune, have great rhythm, and can keep a steady beat (tempo), and play so musically by incorporating phrasing & dynamics. It’s truly amazing.

TC: If you could share one tip with a new Kindermusik educator, what would it be?

JS: It’s not about you, it’s about the customer. Think about what they would like and how you can make them have an OUTSTANDING experience at your studio, from their first phone or email contact, to your website, to a trial class, to their Kindermusik graduation years later.

TC: What do you feel has made your studio business a success?

JS: Being an excellent teacher (and training excellent teachers to be on our staff!), prepared and flexible in class, making every person feel important, and offering fair pricing, makeups, and perks to our clients. Most new families come to us via word of mouth from our raving fans!

TC: What makes Bucktown Music such a special place?

JS: The sense of community. When you walk in the door, we know your name. We often know both parents, the nanny, the grandparents, and everyone else who takes care of the child. We love having families who start as babies and then we get to see them move on to private lessons, and have recitals on the big grand piano in the Fine Arts Building in downtown Chicago. It’s really neat!

TC: What are some of the goals you have for your business?

JS: We would like to expand into more schools and daycares, so that we can reach children who aren’t able to attend our studio classes.

TC: What’s something new and exciting that’s happening with your business?

JS: We are hoping to add a second classroom and a second private lesson room to our studio in the next year! I am also loving my new position with Kindermusik International and am thrilled and honored to be part of refreshing the training for new Kindermusik business owners. I’m especially excited about traveling to Australia this fall to train new educators down under!

TC: What are some of your hobbies?

JS: I love to cook, and then I decided to take it to the next level and started gardening. I have an “oversize” city lot (30ft haha), which my husband and I dug up about half the grass to create a little urban farm where we grow most of our vegetables in summer. We are also avid bicycle riders and ride all over the city and go on bike trips on the Wisconsin trails. We have a 4 year old daughter who LOVES Kindermusik so we do a lot of singing, dancing, and instrument playing at home.

TC: Do you have a favorite inspirational quote?

JS: It’s simple, but my dad always told me, “Do the right thing.” It hasn’t failed me yet![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Educator Spotlight: Jenn Horak-Hult

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Jenn Horak-Hult found something special when she discovered Kindermusik in 2003 and then went on to start her own business, Pied Piper Studios in Des Moines, Iowa, in 2006. She is a vibrant educator, talented musician, and brilliant business owner. Jenn has served on the PKE (Partnership for Kindermusik Educators) board and has contributed in countless other ways to the Kindermusik educator community over the years. She is the beloved “Miss Jenn” to her Kindermusik kids, and lovingly referred to as “Zen Jenn” by Kindermusik mamas who admire her calm ability not to get rattled.[/vc_column_text][vc_separator color=”green”][vc_column_text]TC: What makes Pied Piper Studios such a special place?

JHH: We believe active listening isn’t just part of the curriculum we teach. We listen with our hearts and we strive to respond in the way that helps every family thrive. Every person, big and little, that comes through our doors has a story to tell, and we are continually challenging ourselves to engineer an experience that meets families where they are and then comes alongside to celebrate their own unique journey.

TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik song to sing?

JHH: I have many favorites for lots of reasons. It’s difficult to choose just one. But perhaps the song that holds one of the most special places in my heart is Manx Lullaby. I was teaching Dream Pillow while pregnant with our oldest child over 10 years ago and that lullaby quickly became “his” lullaby. I sang it to him as I waited for his arrival and I painted the lyrics on his nursery walls. I’ve sung it hundreds and hundreds of times to him, and it still remains something special we share all these years later.

TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik dance to lead?

JHH: Tants Tants Yidelekh! I’ve always loved this dance. Bouncing babies along with the tuba is a hit every time.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”“I treasure most…the connection and community created in our classroom“” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%235fd60a”][vc_column_text]TC: What do you love most about teaching Kindermusik?

JHH: There are so many things to love, but one piece I treasure most is the connection and community created in our classroom. It is a tremendous gift to see families meet and form friendships that go on to last for years and years. Parenting is brave and beautiful work, and it is blessing that we are able to provide the time, space, and type of environment where families feel welcomed, nurtured, and loved. Seeing those relationships blossom into support systems that go beyond our walls is incredibly gratifying.

TC: What’s the funniest thing that’s ever happened to you as a Kindermusik teacher?

JHH: I once split the backside of my pants wide open while riding the pretend Elevator and Escalator up and down in an Imagine That! class. With no change of clothes available, I spent the rest of class (including Sharing Time) with a makeshift humongous scarf skirt draped around my waist.

TC: How about the most touching thing?

JHH: The most touching things I’ve experienced while teaching Kindermusik have been the first steps, first words, and other precious milestones reached with so many witnesses to celebrate together.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Passionate People + a Shared Vision = Success” font_container=”tag:h2|text_align:left|color:%2359d600″][vc_column_text]TC: What do you feel has made your studio business a success?

JHH: I have an incredible team and I am very lucky to work with a group of women whom I adore and admire. They inspire me and I do my best to create an environment that feeds their passion, nurtures their skills, encourages their curiosity, and affirms their gifts. Their hearts share my vision, and our success as a studio is very much tied to our desire collectively and individually to make that vision a reality one day, one song, and one dance at a time.

TC: What are some of the goals you have for your business?

JHH: If you could share one tip with a new Kindermusik educator, what would it be? Surround yourself with people who inspire you. My Kindermusik buddies have taught me more than I could ever have hoped to learn on my own. They challenge me to be my best self and there is nothing more fun than being brave in our dreaming together.

TC: What’s something new and exciting that’s happening with your business?

JHH: We are celebrating our 10th anniversary this year so we have lots of surprises up our sleeves for our families![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]TC: What are some of your hobbies outside of teaching Kindermusik?

JHH: My children would say napping! And it’s a little bit true. I am a night owl and am at my creative working best in the wee hours. I’m typically up until 1:00 or 2:00 in the morning. So, when I have the opportunity, there is nothing more heavenly than the chance to crawl back under the covers for a little afternoon snooze…especially with the windows open on a warm day. I also love working in the kitchen and making yummy food for our family to enjoy together around the table. I’m a vegan and I particularly love figuring out how to vegan-ize the Midwestern comfort food I grew up eating. I make a mean vegan mac and cheese.

TC: Do you have a favorite inspirational quote?

JHH: I find that a deep breath is always my best medicine and the most effective catalyst for connection. So it doesn’t surprise me that many of my favorite quotes center on the idea of breath. One of my favorites is on an art print I keep near my desk: “The trick is to keep breathing.” Another painted on our studio wall is “Breathe it all in. Love it all out.”

TC: If you had to name just one secret to success in the Kindermusik classroom, what would it be?

JHH: Laughter. Joy is never far away and children are our best teachers. If we are present enough, they will always lead us there.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Educator Spotlight: Katie Henderson at Music Connections Foundation

Katie Henderson is the director of Music Connections Foundation in Bloomington, Illinois, where they have an award-winning Kindermusik program that is the highlight of their not-for-profit foundation. Music Connections became a Not for Profit Foundation in 2008 in order to broaden the impact of their Kindermusik program. To date, Music Connections has drastically increased their outreach to low-income families via individual Foundation Scholarships, as well as to families of children with special needs, adopted children, at-risk two year olds, autistic children, single parents, and to seniors. Partnerships with outside organizations have included Marc Center, SPICE, Heritage Manor, Westminster Village, Western Avenue Community Center, Evangelical Free Church, East White Oak Bible Church, Illinois State University’s Music Therapy Department, the Autism Society and CIDSO (Central Illinois Downs Syndrome Organization)The Basics

TC: You are one busy lady! What other hobbies do you have besides teaching Kindermusik and running the Foundation?
KH: I would say that my biggest hobby of late is keeping track of all my daughter, Grace, has going on, and enjoying all of her musical pursuits in this, her senior year of high school! Otherwise, I love to experience the beauty of nature in all forms – sunsets, mountains, oceans, flowers peaking through the ground – this brings me joy!

TC: What do your Kindermusik kids call you?
KH: Kindermusik kids call me “Mrs. Henderson”. I didn’t know other teachers, thus other options like using first names, when I began in 1994

Henderson Spotlight — Mrs. Henderson blows bubbles with some of her kids

Kindermusik and Katie

TC: If I could interview your Kindermusik families, how do you think they would describe you?
KH: Hm……How would they describe me? I guess I haven’t asked them lately! I hope they would say that I LOVE their child immeasurably – I do recall a parent once commenting that I treated every child like they were the most special one in the classroom – and that was a great compliment. I would also hope they would say that I am extremely passionate about what I do in my “job” as a Kindermusik educator.

TC: What do you love most about teaching Kindermusik?
KH: It’s hard to identify one favorite part of teaching! One aspect is definitely the chance to empower the grownups in their important jobs as parents, helping them to understand how they can easily impact their child’s optimal development and make parenting easier and joyful using music. Another has to be the love I receive from the children every single time I step into the classroom. Third, I would say that I love that this profession is forever challenging me to grow and change – and I love that ongoing journey!

Favorites

TC: What are some of your favorite Kindermusik songs, and why?
KH: My favorite Kindermusik songs are typically associated with a favorite classroom moment, and many are Quiet Time or Rocking songs, as I am so often overcome with emotion watching parents take the time just to “be” with their kids during these class. Just a couple are: “The Water is Wide,” when I can remember first watching a parent with two kiddos (one little and one quite big) straddle their lap and cuddle, some twenty years ago; “You are My Sunshine,” with a cacophony of 10-12 different names being inserted in place of the word ‘sunshine’ – “You are my Gracie,” “You are my Nathan,” etc.

TC: How about a favorite Kindermusik dance?
KH: Favorite Dance – a hard choice for sure, as there are some great new dances in the new monthly units, but my “old brain” recalls when the Kindermusik Village curriculum was brand new and we had a VIDEOTAPE to teach us all the dances in Do-Si-Do! It seemed a huge undertaking to learn all of those at the time, but was such an enrichment to “Village” – I loved the “Virginia Reel” and “Tango Cha Cha” in that unit.

Success, Smiles, and Special Moments

TC: You have had a hugely successful program here at Music Connections. What’s your secret?
KH: One secret to success is to learn to let go of the lesson plan, and of the idea that you have to follow the plan exactly and/or “get to” everything; to relax and be in the moment with the children AND with the parents – to get personal with them and to be in relationship with them.

TC: And if you could share one tip with a new Kindermusik business owner, what would it be?
KH: Don’t do it all yourself. Come to understand what you are best at, and do THAT, and find others to fill in the gaps! Also – don’t look to replicate yourself in others on your team! Building of team of like-minded, impassioned folks, with varying strengths and abilities, will reap immeasurable rewards in your business.

TC: Share with us some of the most touching moments you observe or experience in your Kindermusik classes.
KH: Some of the most touching moments are celebrating the milestones achieved in class – like a baby taking its first steps, or an extremely active kiddo finally laying down for Quiet Time are special, of course. But I have also been deeply touched – often blown away, really – when we have asked parents to tell us, outside of class, what they love about Kindermusik, and they provide these eloquent testimonials about how we have changed their lives! One parent recently told how she was experiencing extreme post-partum depression, to the point that she could barely leave the house, and someone invited her to visit a class; she described in great detail how welcomed she felt, and how she was drawn to come back the next week because we had been so genuine and kind to her. She detailed how we literally “saved her life” at that time, and I had NO idea about it! (She’s been in for nearly four years and now has a second kiddo enrolled)

TC: What has been one of your most impactful moments in your Kindermusik career?
KH: Though I’ve had many individual experiences, what stands out at this point in my career is the big picture of our business’s journey. We became a Not for Profit in 2008, our 15th year in business, to be able to provide services to larger groups of kids/people with special needs or those at risk. I have a staff who teaches most of these outside classes – for Hispanic families, at-risk two year olds, special needs kiddos, seniors with moms who couldn’t otherwise afford our services, etc.; when I get to the various sites and observe these families who overcome obstacles to make a commitment to get to class (many don’t drive or have cars), and watch them try to sing in English, or reach out to interact with seniors, or work with such patience with their special needs little one – it is then that I stand back and soak in the impact of what we do! It extends well beyond me, with the ripple effect from a team of dedicated ladies (both teachers and my administrator) who give of their hearts and souls as well. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for what I believe to be God’s gift to me, 22 years ago, in finding purposeful, rich “life’s work,” and serving thousands of kiddos and families along the way.

TC: What are some new and exciting things happening with the Music Connections Foundation?
KH: In connection with our 3rd annual yearly fundraiser, an evening entitled “Open Your Heart to Music,” we had a video made to highlight the work that we do as a Not for Profit. We will be cutting it down, eventually, into “snippets” we can use in advertising/marketing efforts, but I am excited that it tells an important story, and was successful, at this event, in helping us to raise nearly $19,000.00 to support the work we do!

The Future

TC: What’s next for you and for the Foundation?
KH: Well, if you want my 10 year, long-range plan, I believe it is that our business will find a new, young leader (or leaders) who can embrace “cutting-edge” ways of doing business that will take us into the next 20 years of Kindermusik, presented by Music Connections Foundation, in our community! I will always stay involved, but would love the role of “Community Advocate,” where I have the time to “pound the doors” of businesses and the “powers that be” in our community, educating them on how music at a young age is crucial, and soliciting funding to support the expansion of our offerings. I also want to see Kindermusik@schools becoming a part of Head Start options in our area. For now, however, I am still on the floor with the kids… for as long as my knees will allow it!

Theresa Case is the director of Piano Central Studios in Greenville, SC, where her award-winning Kindermusik program is part of a vibrant, thriving, community music school. In addition to being a former member of both the KEA and PKE Boards, Theresa has also worked with Kindermusik International on such projects as piloting Village and Imagine That!, developing the original Fundamentals course, contributing to the Imagine That! teacher guides, serving as co-author for the first two units of Family Time, working on the early ABC teacher videos, and presenting various professional development webinars and conference break-out sessions. By far, though, Theresa’s favorite life work includes serving in her church and being a wife and a mother. She and her husband have three boys.

Educator Spotlight: Amy Pennington at InJoy Music

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Amy (Ludwig) Pennington is the owner of InJoy Music, which offers Kindermusik® and piano classes in Kansas City, Kansas. InJoy Music has been an award-winning Kindermusik Maestro studio since 2004. Amy has taught Kindermusik for 15 years now, and has quite an impressive resume with Kindermusik International and a wonderful history of service in the Kindermusik community as well, serving as a PKE (Partnership for Kindermusik Educators representative and PKE Board member, training new educators as a Business Mentor & Coach for KI, and piloting the Sing & Play curriculum. To her Kindermusik families, she’s lovingly known as “Miss Amy.” When she’s not teaching Kindermusik or Simply Music® piano classes, you might find Amy knitting, cheering on the Kansas City Royals, or working on reaching her and her husband’s goal of visiting all thirty Major League Baseball parks![/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text]TC: What’s your favorite part of teaching Kindermusik?
AP: Creating a community within each of my classes.

TC: If you had to name just one secret to success in the Kindermusik classroom, what would it be?
AP: Know everyone’s names – not only the children’s and their parents’, but also their siblings’, grandparents’, and even pets’ names! Everyone is important. When I welcome family members into my classroom by name, they instantly feel special.

TC: What are one or two of your favorite Kindermusik songs to sing?
AP: “May There Always Be Sunshine” and “The Duke of York”

TC: How about favorite Kindermusik dances?
AP: I love “Mama Paquita” and “Tants, Tants, Yidelekh!”.

TC: Anyone who knows you knows that you have a great sense of humor. So I can’t resist asking… What’s one of the funniest things that’s ever happened to you as a Kindermusik teacher?
AP: My Wiggle & Grow kids LOVE to “swing hello.” One time, when a little boy’s mom was swinging him very high, his pants flew off across the room!

TC: Tell us about a teaching experience or favorite Kindermusik family that has significantly impacted you as a Kindermusik educator.
AP: One of my favorite experiences was piloting the Sing & Play curriculum. I felt a great sense of responsibility to educators everywhere and I felt so blessed to be chosen to help shape the curriculum into what goes into classrooms all over the world every week.

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Amy Ludwig — Miss Amy doing what she loves – changing lives!

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The Business of Kindermusik

TC: You’re a studio business owner. What do you feel has made your studio business a success?
AP: I have a very strong team of educators that works with me. We are close-knit and have built a wonderful community, both inside and outside the classroom. Choosing carefully when hiring educators has made an immensely positive impact on the success of InJoy Music.

TC: What are some of the goals you have for your business?
AP: We want to constantly evolve to meet the needs of Today’s Mom, while always staying true to our studio’s core values: Connect, Explore, Love, Create, and Play.

TC: What’s something new and exciting that’s happening with your business?
AP: We are excited to host a spirit week this summer in conjunction with our summer service project – wear a pair of pajamas to class when you bring a pair of new pajamas for a family in need!

TC: If you could share one tip with a new Kindermusik educator, what would it be?
AP: Know your lesson plans inside and out, so when you start teaching class, you can work on connecting with families instead of being boxed into what you “should” be teaching. No one will know if you leave out the third verse of a song – but they will forever remember that you made their child feel special.[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://animoto.com/play/Sl1BVP5M1FeB9QLm2ihbHg”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Educator Spotlight: Christa Beck

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Maestro Educator Christa Beck loves what she does. That love is evident in the smiles of the children and parents she serves in her studio. Theresa Case interviewed this successful teacher so that we might get to know Christa a bit more.[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text]Christa Beck has been changing lives as a Kindermusik Educator for 15 years. Her studio, Kindermusik with Christa Beck, is a multi maestro educator award winner, recognizing those that are among the top programs internationally.

TC: What are some of your hobbies?

CB: Baking, running, reading and eating delicious meals that my husband has cooked. We also love to go out to eat; to experience new restaurants and breweries (and Pittsburgh has lots to choose from!).

TC: What do your Kindermusik kids call you?

CB: Miss Christa

TC: How do your Kindermusik families describe you?

CB: Fun, energetic, silly, smart, kind, loving, patient and always smiling.

Educator Spotlight Christa Beck — Always smiling!

TC: What’s your favorite part of teaching Kindermusik?

CB: Enabling parents to use music to connect with their children in ways they have not known before, in a positive, joyful, supportive environment.

TC: Do you have a favorite Kindermusik song?

CB: I have about 100 “favorite” Kindermusik songs. I loved learning all the words to traditional bedtime songs like “Hush Little Baby,” and “You are My Sunshine” early on in our Kindermusik experience. My children joke that I have a song for just about everything (from toast, to trains, to animals, to cleaning the house). I do randomly burst out in “Kindermusik” songs on a daily basis.

One of Miss Christa’s favorites!

TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik dance?

CB: ‘Liza Jane…I love the energy, the fiddles, the fantastic rhythm for dancing.

TC: If you had to name just one secret to success in the Kindermusik classroom, what would it be?

CB: Genuinely know and care for your families, and always give them 110%.

TC: What are some of the most touching moments you’ve experienced as a Kindermusik educator?

CB: I love the moment when a baby has learned to walk, and the parents in the class all cheer for that first walk across the Kindermusik classroom. When a toddler begins to sing in class, so pure and clear with no inhibitions, my heart smiles and knows this is the most right place to be in the world. Preschoolers are fun, silly, smart and energetic people. I love watching the self-confidence emerge, friendships blossom, and kindness happen naturally in our classes.[/vc_column_text][blockquote cite=”Christa Beck”]Every single child matters.[/blockquote][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: Describe a teaching experience or favorite Kindermusik family that has especially impacted you as a teacher:

CB: I have always been particularly touched by special needs children. I am acutely aware of the extra effort it takes some children to reach certain milestones. I still remember my first Kindermusik child with Down’s Syndrome, Megan. She had been working so hard on walking and around age 2, finally walked across the room during class. The pride and joy of that mom, and the support of the families in that class had tears of joy flowing. I realized at that moment, how much our Kindermusik communities matter. Every single child matters. And what we are doing in the Kindermusik classroom matters. I’ve never lost sight of that.

TC: What do you feel has made your studio business a success?

CB: First and foremost, being the most well-prepared that I can for each and every class. Knowing the songs, knowing the activities, understanding why they are important, and learning more every day about early childhood development. Second, knowing, caring about, and loving my Kindermusik families. I believe in the value of each and every child and parent that comes through my doors each week. My hope is that shines through, and in turn has helped our studio become successful.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://animoto.com/play/Nfw6eJE8vvsSSdsYd00ikQ”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: What’s something new and exciting that’s happening with your business?

CB: We’ve been celebrating our 15th year all year long with fabulous events. A giant “on the farm” playdate at our local organic CSA, Jingle Jam holiday playdates, a recent Sweetheart Ball with 120 people in attendance, and more class offerings that ever before. We focus on adding new and exciting things to our business every year.

TC: What’s next for your Kindermusik program?

CB: I am taking Kindermusik to the Middle East this summer through a mission trip organized by another Kindermusik educator (Jessica Hanson.) My goal has been to have the studio families not only support this trip financially, but also share some of the different music from the two cultures with each other. I look forward to taking materials from our studio to leave in Amman, Jordan, and bringing activities and music back from the other side of the globe. My strong belief is that every child has value, and that music can be a universal means of communication; sharing healing and love from one country to the next.

I also hope to continue to grow our Kindermusik baby classes; to share with parents how much music can make an impact on children’s lives, particularly during the earliest years.

[/vc_column_text][blockquote cite=”Christa Beck”]Truly a labor of love…[/blockquote][vc_column_text]TC: If you could share one tip with a new Kindermusik educator, what would it be?

CB: Being a successful Kindermusik educator takes time, talent and hard work. If you believe in it, live it, breathe it, and give as much as you can of yourself, the rewards that come back are priceless. It’s the hardest I’ve ever worked, and the best time I’ve ever had in any career. Truly a labor of love.

Theresa Case’s award-winning Kindermusik program is part of Piano Central Studios, located in the beautiful upstate of South Carolina.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

Are you interested in becoming a Kindermusik Educator?[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_button2 title=”START HERE” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kindermusik.com%2Fteach-children-music%2F||target:%20_blank”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Educator Spotlight Preview

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”8332″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Happy Monday, friends! Next month, we will be starting a regular feature at Minds on Music – our Educator Spotlight! I will have the good fortune of interviewing a Kindermusik Educator. The sun never sets on Kindermusik! Somewhere on the globe, at any moment, there’s a Kindermusik educator leading children in song and movement. These talented, dedicated folks make the magic happen. We should get to know them!

Our first subject will be 9 time Maestro Award recipient Christa Beck. As a preview, here’s a recent article about Christa and her work with Kindermusik that appeared in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. She is a wonderful example of the type of people teaching our kids, and a great place to start!

Know an educator we should feature? Let me know! Contact me at dr.boyle@markaboyle.com.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]