Minds On Music – The Kindermusik Blog - Page 16 of 105 - For three generations, Kindermusik has helped millions of children around the world build a strong foundation for a lifetime of learning.

Kindermusik – A Family Affair

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]A class for kids that’s really an experience for the whole family? Actually, yes! That’s the perfect description of Kindermusik, and one of the happy discoveries for so many families who enroll in Kindermusik.

But how exactly does a music class for kids become something that includes, engages, and supports the whole family? We love how this happens, beautifully and organically, but also inclusively and mindfully.

Beautifully

From rocking with baby in your arms to cuddles with your toddler or a circle dance with your big kid, Kindermusik invites families to bond together through happy exploration, creative interaction, and shared musical experiences. And because Home Materials are a part of every Kindermusik enrollment, families have the resources and the music to repeat and revel in these same precious, musical moments together at home all through the week as well.

Organically

Kindermusik simply and naturally supports and nurtures each individual child and family through shared activities in class as well as musical learning and engagement at home. The connection through music and learning happens so spontaneously, because the curriculum and the experience have been so carefully planned in advance. Kindermusik Home Materials foster the exploration and joy of music at home, with activities and scaffolding for both adult and child.

Inclusively

At the heart of Kindermusik is the family interaction – bringing families together through music both in and out of class. Class activities, communication, and tools and resources for home have all been intentionally designed to include children and their adults, from the adult-child classes in the earliest years to Sharing Time in the preschool classes to “Music at Home” activities for the older kids. Children learn best when they feel emotionally secure and supported, surrounded by adults who love and take interest in them.

Mindfully

We probably should have said “heartfully” instead of mindfully. It is both minds and hearts that become engaged and intertwined in the incredible experience that is the essence of Kindermusik. Over and over and over again, we have seen how being in Kindermusik helps make parenting a little easier and a whole lot more musical, helping you cherish these fleeting early years of childhood and store away treasured memories of smiles, cuddles, dances, and songs.

Connecting families is at the heart of what makes Kindermusik so special and so life-altering. In Kindermusik classes, the careful observer will see happy children gently supported by their loving adults in a musical environment designed to nourish little hearts, stimulate growing minds, and support strong family ties. There’s nothing quite like the way that music bonds us as humans, and nothing quite like the way that Kindermusik brings children and families together.

Check out a class near you!

Shared by Theresa Case who has loved bringing children and families together for over 20 years now in her award-winning Kindermusik program at Piano Central Studios in beautiful upstate South Carolina[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Kindermusik Reviews: The Beginning of Life

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Beginning of Life is beautifully composed, feature-length documentary written and directed by Brazilian film maker Estela Renner. Traveling across the globe, from her native Brazil, Kenya, China, and a host of other locales, Renner takes the viewer on a rich journey into the world of the developing child. [/vc_column_text][vc_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

The Official Trailer for The Beginning of Life

[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LHqUMqvL1RQ”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Renner and her crew interview researchers, educators, parents, grandparents, and children from a diverse background, culturally and economically. Most challenge the long standing idea that children are born as a blank slate – the tabula rosa. Dr. Alison Gopnik of the University of California turns the table on this notion:

One of the things that we know is that babies are the best learning machines in the universe. Even philosophers and psychologists and psychiatrists thought that babies were irrational; they were egocentric; they were amoral; they didn’t understand cause and effect; they couldn’t take the perspective of another person. And in the past 30 years our science has taught us that everything is exactly the opposite. Instead of thinking of them as blank slates, really their the best scientists and the best learners that we know of…

– Alison Gonik, PhD

Current work in the field of child development tells us children are born with a natural proclivity for research. They form what are best described as experiments to test the world around them. How will physical objects respond when dropped? If I do it again will the same result occur? How will my parent respond? They build understanding of their surroundings through constant collection and processing of data.

Renner stitches together images of children exploring their world through every sense. Sights, sounds, textures all become fodder for “guesses or hypotheses” about how everything around them works.[/vc_column_text][blockquote cite=”Alison Gopnik, PhD”]We often say toddlers have trouble paying attention. What we really mean is they have trouble not paying attention. [/blockquote][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

A child enjoys playing with a piece of cloth in the wind.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As you watch this documentary, one can’t help but notice the diversity of the subjects of all types. Renner certainly spent a good deal of time in her home country, but she also made a very successful effort to include underrepresented populations and viewpoints from several cultures. The world somehow seems smaller after watching this film and we learn that the desire to compassionately care for children knows no borders.

One of the most touching segments involves a set of grandparents in China who help raise their granddaughter while her parents work. The grandfather sings to the little one in Mandarin as she leans against her grandmother. Pedro Lima’s score artfully accompanies his song. The grandfather states:

The happiest moment of my day is when my granddaughter calls me grandpa when she wakes up. And when we eat together and she asks me to hold her and to eat on my lap.

This plays into the expressed notion that it does indeed take a village to raise a child. One researcher tells us that children are raised by individuals, not institutions. It is the interactions children have with the people around them that help shape who they are and how they, in turn, interact with their world. The things that have the greatest impact cost nothing. Words…talking to babies, to toddlers…literally help the brain develop and helps them increase their understanding of life, and words are free.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Beginning of Life delivers its message – the importance of investing time in nurturing a child in the all-important initial years – with solid science and skillful direction, resulting in an elegant film, abundant in scientific information easily understood. As you bounce from English to French to Portuguese to Italian to Hindi to Spanish, it’s difficult to not draw a comparison to what it must be like for that infant taking in unknown sounds and working to understand what they mean. Is it possible this was intentional? Perhaps. Perhaps not. Regardless, it does remind us that no one country, no one culture has a monopoly on honest interest in seeing our most important resource cherished, loved, and provided for. We are truly in this together, and the opportunity this film affords all who watch it is a tremendous one. The opportunity to hear from Chinese grandparents and Kenyan orphanage workers and Indian children is invaluable.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Renner deftly weaves interviews with respected researchers, scientists, and even Raffi Cavoukian, the beloved Egyptian-born, Canadian children’s entertainer, with parents, grandparents, and the children themselves. The film holds the viewer’s attention with beautiful visuals and wonderful information that may change the way society looks at the importance of these early years. When we spend time with our children as they enter our world, when we make it easier for families to take time off from work to be part of the initial acts of the play of life, everybody wins. Raffi said it best:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][blockquote cite=”Raffi”]”When you pay attention to the beginning of a story, you can change the whole story.”[/blockquote][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Beginning of Life is currently streaming on Netflix and can also be watched on Youtube for $1.99. Do yourself a favor: grab some popcorn and your favorite beverage, set aside an hour and a half, and watch this documentary. You’ll be glad you did.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Kindermusik Reviews: Cutie Sue and the Darkness

[vc_row][vc_column][blockquote cite=”Cutie Sue and the Darkness”]“She feared almost nothing except for one thing:
She hated the nights and the darkness they’d bring.”[/blockquote][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]You know you have a winning combination in a bedtime story that’s as adorable as it is relatable. Kids and parents alike understand what it’s like to be afraid of the dark. And this book gives parents a wonderful tool in helping kids face that fear and deal with it, just like Cutie Sue, the heroine of the story.

We have to give this book two thumbs up because it checks off so many things on our “great read for kids” list. From the cover to the first opening pages, two things immediately capture your attention – the gorgeous, vivid colors in the illustrations and the delightful introduction to the main character, Cutie Sue.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Author Kate Melton has created a short, yet well-developed story line that rhymes in such a way to be fun, but not so predictable in the way it rhymes to enjoy reading aloud. And since we’re pretty sure this book will become a fan favorite in your home, readability and repeatability were two of our most important criteria for giving this sweet children’s story one of our highest recommendations.

But why would you want to read a book to kids about being afraid of the dark? Couldn’t that actually plant the fear in their minds or make them more afraid? Quite the contrary! Kids deal with all kinds of fears throughout childhood, but especially when they are younger, they don’t always know how to express or deal with those fears. So a book like Cutie Sue and the Darkness not only gives children a kid-friendly tool for dealing with their fear, but it also inspires them with a context for facing that one universal childhood fear – being afraid of the dark.

What’s really appealing to adults about Cutie Sue and the Darkness is how Cutie Sue’s parents help her deal with her fears. There are some very helpful ideas for parents in the story!

We especially love the great ending. Not only does Cutie Sue bravely conquer her fear of the dark, but she then teaches her little brother, Charlie, about how to be brave.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]If you become a fan of Cutie Sue like we have, you’ll be delighted to know that the book is part of a series the author is writing. Looks like we will have many more Cutie Sue books to look forward to in the future!

Cutie Sue and the Darkness by Kate Melton and illustrated by Ira Baykovska is a great read for kids ages three to six and can be purchased in paperback and e-book formats.

Review shared by Theresa Case, who loves a good children’s book find any day, especially one she can share with the families in her award-winning Kindermusik program at Piano Central Studios in the beautiful upstate of South Carolina[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Music of the Earth

Happy Earth Day! Well…it will be Earth Day in a couple days. First observed in 1970, Earth Day is intended to bring awareness to environmental issues and our interconnectedness to the only home we’ve ever known. Carl Sagan Said it best:

“…That’s here. That’s home. That’s us. On it everyone you love, everyone you know, everyone you ever heard of, every human being who ever was, lived out their lives. ”

– Carl Sagan, Pale Blue Dot: A Vision of the Human Future in Space

Dr. Sagan was referring to a photo of the Earth taken on Valentines Day, 1990, by the Voyager 1 spacecraft from a distance of about 6 billion miles. Here’s that iconic image:

That’s the Earth – Sagan’s Pale Blue Dot – the tiny speck in the yellowish beam of light. Puts things into a different perspective, doesn’t it?

Well, our perspective is music, and believe it or not, the Earth makes its own music; we just have to listen for it. Let’s explore Mother Nature’s symphony.

Singing Stones and Ringing Rocks

Yep. Stones can sing – and I’m not referring to Mick Jagger and Keith Richards (although, those guys can sing!).These amazing, natural rock formations can be found all over the globe, from Bucks County, Pennsylvania to Omaruru, Namibia. The rocks ring like a bell when struck, producing different tones depending on physical make up and size. Here’s the interesting thing: scientists still can’t come to a consensus on what causes the rocks to ring. Regardless, they still sound beautiful. Take a listen! Interested in checking out ringing rocks for yourself? Here’s a list of locations over at Wikipedia.

The Sea Organ

Ok…this one is a bit of a stretch. In Zadar, Croatia, a human-made structure is played constantly by the waves of the sea. From the website, Odd Music:

The Sea Organ (morske orgulje) is is a natural musical instrument, seventy meters long with thirty-five organ pipes built under the concrete. The musical pipes are located so that the sea water and wind movements produce musical sounds that are heard by passers by so that it achieves a communication with nature and promotes a unity of architecture and environment. As sea forces and energies are unpredictable in terms of tides and winds, this organ offers [a] never-ending concert of numerous musical variations in which the performer is nature itself.

That’s the key here, friends – nature itself is the player of this instrument. If there ever was an example of humanity and the earth coming together to make music, this is it. Have a listen – it’s mesmerizing.

Aeolus – The Wind Sculpture

The Aeolus Acoustic Wind Pavilion - photo: newatlas.com — The Aeolus Acoustic Wind Pavilion – photo: newatlas.com

This piece of art, created by Luke Jerram, falls into the same category as the Sea Organ; this is on a smaller scale but no less beautiful. Here is a human-made instrument designed to be played by one of the earth’s forces – the wind. In Greek Mythology, Aeolus was the ruler of the winds, so the sculpture is aptly named. Consisting of 310 stainless steel pipes with some containing suspended harp strings, Aeolus is always being played whenever the wind is blowing.

For some time, the sculpture was traveling around England but now has a permanent home in Canary Wharf, London. If you’re there, check it out! We certainly have done much with music as a civilization, but remember, the oldest musician around is the Earth itself. Beyond sounds of the planet, other inhabitants make music from bird songs and whale songs to the buzzing bees and howling wolves. Music is all around us. Take some time this week to go outside, maybe to a park, and listen to the music of nature. You might just find some inspiration for your own music!

Can you Spoil your Baby? Probably Not

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]How many pictures of newborns have you seen in the moments after the little one arrived in the world? I’m talking about a specific category of photos – the beautiful shots of mothers holding their babies for the first time – that all important skin-to-skin contact. Medscape tells us this:

…newborns who are placed skin to skin with their mothers immediately after birth make the transition from fetal to newborn life with greater respiratory, temperature, and glucose stability and significantly less crying indicating decreased stress. Mothers who hold their newborns skin to skin after birth have increased maternal behaviors, show more confidence in caring for their babies and breastfeed for longer durations.

Makes good sense. But what about once your home? Can you spoil your baby by holding her too much? Wendy Wisner over at Scary Mommy brings us the results of some long term studies that indicate there really isn’t a downside to holding your baby too much. Let’s look at the science.

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Health Benefits

It’s clear from scientific studies that lots of skin to skin contact with the mother is very beneficial for preterm infants. This includes increased grey matter, decreased hyperactivity, and in the long term, fewer absences from school. The study published last December by the American Academy of Pediatrics followed a group of premature infants for twenty years. That’s long term. These subjects even made more money at their jobs than the control group!

But what about full term infants? Can we hold them too much? Is that spoiling them?

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Go Ahead – Hold that Crying Baby

Holding that baby will help the little one in many ways – but it also has benefits for you! Check out this info from Baby Science:

So holding a baby close against your body doesn’t just feel good; it’s critical to a baby’s development. And this critical baby-cuddling isn’t just something a parent decides to do; it’s actually biologically triggered by the baby. One international research team showed that an infants’ smell is enough to trigger the brain’s reward system in potential cuddlers^⁠. Researchers exposed a group of fifteen mothers and fifteen women who had not given birth, to odor extracted from the pajamas of two-day old infants. All the women underwent MRI brain scans done while being exposed to the odor. In all the women, but more so in the mothers, the reward center in the brain showed enhanced activity.

At the doctor’s office? Did your baby just get a shot? Obviously our instinct is to hold that infant close to help sooth her. And it works – skin to skin contact is a painkiller! In a 2000 study also published in the AAP, 30 infants were pricked in their heels. The results were remarkable:

“Crying and grimacing were reduced by 82% and 65%, respectively, from control infant levels during the heel lance procedure. Heart rate also was reduced substantially by contact.”

– AAP

Those are some big numbers.

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You Just Can’t Hold a Baby Too Much

The research is clear. The physical and emotional health benefits of holding your baby are tremendous. Study after study tell us that holding your baby when he is fussy or experiencing pain is a good thing. Period. Wendy Wisner says it better than I can:

…it turns out there is basically a treasure trove of scientifically backed-up data out there to prove that there is absolutely no way you can spoil a baby. Zero. Zilch.

In fact, almost all of the research points to the fact that not holding your baby enough could have negative ramifications in terms of health and development.

I almost wish I could go back in time and present all this data to the people who criticized me for keeping my babies in my arms or strapped to me in a baby carrier 24/7. But in all honesty, I’m pretty sure I was like most new moms out there — too exhausted and brain-fried to do much arguing or researching.

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Science Center Stage: Kids’ Brains Grow Faster with Music

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]We don’t just think music instruction has a cognitive impact; we know it does. The science to prove it continues to pile up. And it’s pretty exciting stuff when you’re talking about things like MRI’s, EEG’s, and behavioral testing being part of the proof.

A recent study, begun by the Brain and Creativity Institute at USC back in 2012 has just revealed some impressive findings. The study actually showed that “…music instruction speeds up the maturation of the auditory pathway in the brain and increases its efficiency.” In other words, your brain works better if you’ve had musical instruction!

“Within two years of the study, the neuroscientists found the auditory systems of children in the music program were maturing faster in them than in the other children. The fine-tuning of their auditory pathway could accelerate their development of language and reading, as well as other abilities – a potential effect which the scientists are continuing to study.”

Kindermusik International has long recognized the connection between music instruction and brain development. You can’t teach a baby to play the piano or violin, but you can still give them rich and powerful early experiences with music that activate and actually change the brain through music and movement activities.

It is through a curriculum that combines the power of early music experiences for newborns to big kids in a developmentally appropriate setting that Kindermusik is able to deliver a unique music learning experience that puts a song in each child’s heart, helps parents and children bond, and gives kids a chance to play and be kids – all while giving them an early cognitive advantage through singing, dancing, playing instruments, and moving.

But don’t just take our word for it… check out the science for yourself. Kids’ brains really do grow faster, stronger, and happier with music and music classes like Kindermusik! And you’ll both have a lot of happy memories of songs, giggles, and together time to treasure forever too.[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Shared by Theresa Case who loves that kids’ eyes, hearts, and brains have been lighting up for over 20 years now in their Kindermusik classes at Piano Central Studios, where she is the Director.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Musical Traditions of Passover and Easter

It happens often – the Jewish observance of Passover and the Christian observance of Easter will coincide this week. Passover began today at sundown and continues until April 18th. Easter will be celebrated this coming Sunday, April 16th. The two holidays actually share an etymological root – Easter is still called Pascha in Greek, which in turn comes from the Hebrew Pesach, a word still used today for Passover.

As with many faiths, music plays an important role in observance and celebration of important holidays. Easter and Passover are no different. Let’s explore some of the music associated with these special festivals.

Chant – lots of Chant

Both faiths historically have used a great deal of chant, a form of elevated speech, to convey concepts, express aspects of faith, and offer praise. There are many chants associated with both Passover and Easter. At the Passover Seder, the ceremonial dinner that recalls the flight from Egypt, songs are song, and text is often chanted. One of the most important is the Ma Nishtana (Hebrew for “this Night”). The Ma Nishtana contains the “Four Questions” and is traditionally sung by the youngest child able to do so. Here’s the text in English:

Why is this night different
from all the other nights;

That on all other nights we eat both
chametz and matzah,
on this night, we eat only matzah

That on all other nights we eat
many vegetables,
on this night, only maror

That in all other nights we do not
dip vegetables even once,
on this night, we dip twice

That in all other nights
some eat sitting and others reclining,
on this night, we are all reclining

Here’s Roni, practicing the Ma Nishtana for her family’s Passover Seder:

An Ancient Easter Chant – Victimae Paschali Laudes

This chant first appeared after the Council of Trent in 1570, thought it is certainly older. It praises Jesus as the Passover victim (you can see that etymological connection in the title – Paschali – Latin for Passover). The original chant tune is still used in Catholic churches and has been arranged in countless ways for solo voice and choral ensembles. Here is a portion of the text:

Let Christians offer sacrificial
praises to the passover victim.

The lamb has redeemed the sheep:
The Innocent Christ has reconciled
the sinners to the Father.

Death and life contended
in a spectacular battle:
the Prince of life, who died,
reigns alive.

Here is the simple chant version, complete with its early musical notation, called neumatic notation, which predates our modern way of writing music. Watch the notes go up and down as the voice goes up and down in pitch.

Handel – Israel in Egypt

Yes, it’s true. George Frideric Handel was not Jewish, but his oratorio, Israel in Egypt, tells the story of the Exodus in grand fashion. The work was premiered in England in April of 1739. This major work, written in three parts, is now commonly performed with just the final two parts – in 39 individual movements! It is primarily choral though there are some solo and duet movements. What is no performed as Part II is an English translation of the Shirat HaYam – The Song of the Sea. In this chorus, which sets the first sentence of the Shirat HaYam, Moses and his people sing together for the first time, celebrating the escape from Pharaoh.

Moses and the children of Israel sung this song unto the Lord, and spake, saying: I will sing unto the Lord, for He hath triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider hath He thrown into the sea.

Here is the Choir of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford and the English Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Simon Preston. Note the joyful music as the chorus sings “the horse and his rider hath He thrown into the sea.”

Miriam’s Song

Debbie Friedman, a Jewish American songwriter, composed the well known Miriam’s Song. It offers Moses’ sister’s point of view after the Exodus. Miriam leads the women in dance and song, celebrating their freedom. Friedman’s music is in the folk vein, filled with elation and joy. In the recording below, you can hear the shofar, an ancient musical instrument made of a ram’s horn and used in Jewish religious ceremony, blown at the very end.

As always, music pervades everything we do – holidays, both sacred and secular; our commutes are filled with music; every aspect of modern entertainment is saturated with music from television to movies. Imagine a world without music! It would be quite boring.

Educator Spotlight – Robyn Pearce

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]How’s this for a fascinating location for a Kindermusik program? Robyn and her family live on a huge rock island in the Atlantic Ocean in the city of St. John’s, located on the far eastern side of Canada. In fact, the most easterly point in North America is not too far away from where Robyn lives. Robyn describes Kindermusik as the “perfect fit” for her, and we couldn’t agree more. She often refers to her sweet Kindermusik kids as little butterflies, growing and spreading their wings of discovery in a big world! Once you get to know Robyn, it’s easy to see why her Kindermusik families adore her, describing her as fun loving, energetic, and passionate about the power of music. Now in her 10th year, Robyn is grateful every day to be able to bring music into the hearts and lives of children and their families!

[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/212081869″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: What makes your studio such a special place

RP: Our studio is a place where each family is loved, respected and valued.

TC: Why did you open your studio business?

RP: Funny story… One of my professors gave me a KM brochure almost 20 years ago while doing my music degree in the US. She told me that I should really check into it because she thought I would be a good fit. Fast forward another five years or so, and someone at my church gave me the exact same brochure and told me I should check into it because I might be a good fit for this program. It wasn’t until I had my own two boys that I decided I wanted to be home with them as much as possible, so running my own business felt like a good plan since I was already teaching private voice and piano. I rediscovered those KM brochures and really dug into what Kindermusik was all about. I was overjoyed to see that Kindermusik lined up with my own philosophies on early childhood music education. I am forever grateful for having had people in my life who gave me a nudge in this direction.

TC: What do you love most about being a Kindermusik educator?

RP: One of the things I love most about being a Kindermusik educator getting to be part of the journey of a child from infant right up to “big kid”. It’s absolutely amazing to me. Each person is so individual. Each brings victories and hurdles (children and grownups alike!). As I watch their personalities unfold, I am so grateful to the parents who allow me to share in this small window of time in their child’s life.

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

RP: I don’t even know where to start. My 3 and 4 year olds constantly make me laugh. I always caution parents to be careful what they say because we NEVER know what they are going to share![/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik dance to lead?

RP: Mama Paquita has always been my favorite dance (just ask my families!), but my new runner-ups have to be “A Tisket, A Tasket” and “Turn, Cinnamon, Turn.”

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

RP: I know I can speak not only for myself, but my whole team. Everyone needs to feel a sense of belonging. While we always want to strive for excellence and professionalism, really connecting with families and letting them see our hearts each week has to come out on top. I want to cultivate connection in a setting that promotes family through music and movement, connection between caregivers and children, connection between families, and connection between educator and family.

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

RP: I absolutely love teaching! I’ve been blessed to have a family who supports me. I am also fortunate to have a wonderful little team of educators who share my passion. We love our Kindermusik families, and I think it shows.

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

RP: This year I hope to rebrand our studio name. My studio name currently highlights just my name. I am beyond blessed to have amazing admin and educators working with me, and I want a name that reflects a team. I couldn’t reach the volume of families that we serve without my gals. Thank you Gillian, Rachel, Noelle, Nicole (and our old pal, Miss Joanna!). [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

[/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?

RP: Never stop learning!

TC: And a little about you outside of Kindermusik… What are some of your hobbies?

RP: Reading, athletics, and of course music. I love to be involved with local musical theatre productions when my schedule permits. It’s SO much fun! Most of my down time is spent time with my family, including our sweet furry pal, Kiki.

TC: This is always a question I love to ask. What is your favorite inspirational quote?

RP: I have a number of them, but I will share two—one that reminds me to be grateful for every day and the people and blessings in it, and the other to remind me to treat every person that crosses my path with kindness and dignity. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

“Piglet noticed that even though he had a Very Small Heart, it could hold a rather large amount of Gratitude.” – A.A. Milne in “Winnie the Pooh”
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou

[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text]Shared by Theresa Case, director of Piano Central Studios in Greenville, SC.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Book Review – The Secret Life of Squirrels: A Love Story

Nancy Rose is likely Canada’s most patient photographer. She’s also rather creative. In The Secret Life of Squirrels – A Love Story, Rose uses her skill with the camera, custom created miniature set pieces, and the natural curiosity of these adorable fur balls to tell a story that will bring a smile to kids and adults alike.

Mr. Peanuts has no problems showing emotion in a healthy way.

Our story follows the aptly named “Mr. Peanuts” (Rose uses peanuts to attract the squirrels to her tiny sets) as he prepares for Valentines Day. But wait! Mr. Peanuts is all alone. While preparing to do some yard work in his shed and shopping for groceries (with a peanut in his mouth – clearly his signature), he ponders what life might be like with a special friend.

Of course the appeal here is the charming poses Rose manages to capture, and apparently this is through simple diligence. Nothing is manipulated. The little tableaus are real life squirrel drama. Kids will laugh when they see Mr. Peanut and his special friend, Rosie, spend time on the playground playing hopscotch, enjoying the slide and swing set, and sitting down for a candle-lit dinner for two.

The Secret Life of Squirrels - A Love Story, written and photographed by Nancy Rose and published by Little, Brown and Company. — *The Secret Life of Squirrels – A Love Story*, written and photographed by Nancy Rose and published by Little, Brown and Company.

These squirrels have been coming to visit Rose for some time. From the author’s website, secretlifeofsquirrels.com:

A passion for nature and wildlife, and a lifetime spent as a crafter merged when she discovered the curiousity of the little American Red squirrels who raided the bird feeders in her backyard. Nancy creates squirrel size props using cardboard, clay, and assorted craft supplies and dollar store finds. She arranges them in miniature settings and she has created numerous scenarios on her backyard deck where the inquisitive squirrels find themselves in some rather human like poses as they search for peanuts hidden in the props.

Her favorite squirrel, Mr. Peanuts, was the first to eat from her hand and when he is “in the neighborhood” he is sure to stop by and check out whatever Nancy puts out on her deck rail. Her squirrel visitors have grown in number and Nancy hopes that together they can continue to delight viewers for years to come.

– Nancy Rose’s website, www.secretlifeofsquirrels.com

Squirrels Playground — Mr. Peanuts and Rosie enjoy some leisure time on the playground.

The Secret Life of Squirrels – A Love Story, published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, is part of a series of books that share Rose’s regular visitors and their entertaining antics. Take a look – they are visually engaging and lovingly created. You can pick up the books at your local book store or online at your favorite retailer. Amazon offers both physical and electronic editions.

5 Creative DIYs to Transform Playtime at Home

Kids with great imaginations and boundless creativity may test your patience at times, but they are the ones with the brightest futures – the ones most likely to invent something fantastic or solve one of the world’s biggest problems. And they are great problem solvers!

It’s in the early years that we adults have the greatest opportunity to support and foster imagination and creativity in a child. That’s one of the things we Kindermusik educators love about Kindermusik – it’s all about being creative, thinking outside the box, and using our imaginations as the children learn about music and explore making music in all kinds of ways.