Theresa Case Archives - Page 3 of 7 - Minds On Music

Educator Spotlight: Tricia Murrish

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This is a big celebration year for Tricia – her 10th year of being a Kindermusik educator. Music has always been a big part of her life, but she found her heart’s calling when she took over an existing studio in 2007. Now known as Kindermusik with Tricia, Tricia’s program serves families in Kearney, Nebraska, where her studio is housed at Yandas Music. To know Tricia is to love her, with her gentle spirit, generous heart, and love for children and music.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/232055011″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: Your studio has such a fascinating history. Tell us a little about how Kindermusik with Tricia came to be.

TM: Kindermusik in Kearney began in 1998 with Educator Rick Mitchell who is currently our Kearney High School Band Director. In 2002, it passed to then Yandas Music Employee and now local Pastor, Brian Jenkins. I took over the Kindermusik Studio in 2007 as Educator and Business Owner.

TC: What made you decide to become a Kindermusik studio business owner?

TM: Music has always been important in my life. At 5 years old, I remember begging my parents for piano lessons as I sat at my Grandmother’s old upright piano, swinging my feet and “pretending” to play a song. I was able to start private lessons in 2nd grade and began playing regularly in church when I was 16. Band, jazz band and marching band were important throughout Jr. High and High School (I even met my husband at marching band camp!). I graduated from college with a degree in Elementary Education and have served alongside my husband for the last 30 years in full-time youth and children’s ministry first Pastoring, and now serving with Royal Family KIDS, a non-profit camp, club, and mentoring program for children in the foster care system. During that time, music played a vital role in every position I served in – with preschoolers up through adults. When I was presented with the opportunity of taking over the existing Kindermusik studio in Kearney – with my passion for parenting, love of teaching, and involvement in music – it was a perfect fit![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: You not only give to your own local community, but you’ve also served in other organizations. Share with us a little about some of the ways you have given back.

TM: I just finished my three-year term as a member of the Kindermusik SOUND board. It has been an honor to serve the Kindermusik community that way, and I know I grew professionally and personally with the friendships and relationships formed during that time. I also lead the National Music Board for Royal Family KIDS.

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

TM: My husband says I have a song for everything. My 4 children (Jarrad, Natalie, Noah, and Ethan – now 25, 22, 20, and 14) would often roll their eyes over the years when I started spontaneously singing a related song during an activity of our day. My husband has even been known to play a game to call out a word and then wait for a corresponding song! We have a lot of fun and laughter in our home together. So, back to my favorite Kindermusik song…. it’s Sing Your Way Home from the Sing & Play Zoom! Album. [/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]TC: And this is a fun question to ask too. What’s your favorite Kindermusik dance to lead?

TM: I love Turn, Cinnamon, Turn and Mama Paquita.

TC: So I have to ask. What do you love most about being a Kindermusik educator?

TM: There are so many things I love about being a Kindermusik Educator – I love the music, and of course, the children, but I think what I really love most is the natural encouragement and affirmation of parenting that happens in a Kindermusik setting. Parents often share with me how much their child loves me and looks forward to seeing me at Kindermusik. I always try to take that moment to turn it back to the parent, encouraging them with the truth that what their child deeply looks forward to are the moments of love and laughter that happen with THEM at Kindermusik. I am simply the one who gets the credit for those moments of joy because I create the atmosphere and facilitate the magical moments they spend together as parent and child. I am able to give parents “tools” for their parenting “tool belts” that they can use throughout their relationship journey. That’s what I love about my job.

[/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?

TM: Early in my Kindermusik years I was challenged to change the way I saw “problems” in my classes. If something doesn’t go the way I think it should with a child’s behavior or response, the first place I need to look at what to change is me. That has shifted so much in my preparation, attitude, and outcome of my classes.

TC: What makes your studio such a special place?

TM: Kindness and respect for every person “where they are” is practiced. There is a treasured gift that hangs in my studio – a sign that says, “Do the kindest thing, in the kindest way.” A mom shared that her son picked it out to give me when he graduated from Young Child to describe his feelings about his Kindermusik experience.

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

TM: I believe a large part of my studio success is that I am a “by the book” person. My tip for a new educator? Follow the recipe. On the business side, KI provides us with great training and tools to help us succeed. On the educator side, our curriculum and teacher guides are based on the most current research and best practices. We can add our own distinct flavor and garnish – but it is a successful recipe … so follow it![/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]TC: What’s something new and exciting that’s happening with your studio business?

TM: I am excited about expanding my studio reach in two new ways this year. I will be adding Simply Music piano classes for Kindermusik graduates this fall. Also, I will be partnering with Country House for Memory Care here in Kearney. My mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2011 and now resides at Country House. I have been longing for a way to combine my deep respect and love for my mother and others with Alzheimer’s with my passion for music and families. I am so excited to begin Kindermusik with Grandfriends! I will be offering a Kindermusik class 4 to 5 times this school year at Country House. My current families will have the opportunity to share the Kindermusik joy with elders with Alzheimer’s and dementia as we sing, explore, learn and grow together on a whole new level.

TC: What is your favorite inspirational quote?

TM: I have always been captured by the picture of a strong life-giving tree. My life verse from the Bible is Jeremiah 17:7-8, “Blessed are those who trust in the Lord… they are like trees planted along a riverbank with roots that reach deep into the water. …They never stop producing fruit.”[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text]Shared by Theresa Case whose award-winning Kindermusik program at Piano Central Studios in Greenville, SC, has been a happy advocate for the benefits of music for over 20 years now.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

How Music Affects your Mood and your Mind

With over 30 years of observing children and adults in the Kindermusik classroom, we know from experience that music has a huge effect on the emotions. Science and research continue to affirm what we also suspect, and that is that music can significantly impact cognition as well – in the early years and later in life as we age.

And so we find articles like Music & the Brain: The Fascinating Ways Music Affects Your Mood and Mind to be very intriguing and incredibly confirming of the wonderful benefits of being enrolled in a music program like Kindermusik. The author of the article, Barry Goldstein, points out four ways that consistent participation in a “…musical program can target and enhance certain brain functions.” Here’s a quick summary of those four benefits that Goldstein identifies.

Emotion

Music actually affects the brain emotionally because of the way specific brain circuits are wired to respond to music. The closeness and bonding times that come through singing and dancing together actually release the feel-good hormone, oxytocin, also known as the “cuddle hormone.” And when listening to music touches us emotionally, it’s because there’s a neurotransmitter produced in the brain, called dopamine, that helps feel the pleasure and connection of music.

Memory

Even when the mind is debilitated by the effects of Alzheimer’s, it can still be awakened when the patient hears music from his younger years to which he had an emotional connection. One of the most beautiful illustrations of this is an elderly man named Henry who was featured in the movie Alive Inside. Watch this and see if it doesn’t move you to tears! The music we love creates memories that stay with us for all of our lives.

Check out this charming older couple making music together.

Learning and Neuroplasticity

Did you know that the brain can literally reorganize itself by forming new neural connections? And that the formation of new neural connections can be significantly affected by music? We see this documented in extreme cases of brain damage when music is one of the stimuli used to cause the brain to rewire itself. For example, music therapy and singing were instrumental in helping former congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords learn how to speak again. If music has this kind of powerful effect on a brain that’s suffered trauma, just think of what effects music can have on a healthy brain!

Gabrielle Giffords used music therapy as part of her recovery process.

Attention

Unlike any other medium, music has the unique capability o capture our full attention, and as a result, can “activate, sustain, and improve our attention.” In a culture that’s full of distractions, the ability to focus our busy minds and allow our brains and our hearts to connect, we can find true balance and deep-seated joy. This wonderful phenomenon can occur for both adults and children alike.

All of this research and brain “stuff” can be a little dry; we admit it. But it also underscores the amazing and powerful effects of music, no matter what age or what stage of development the mind and emotions are in. Understanding a little of the science behind the powerful effects of music on our minds and emotions makes it all the more meaningful when experience music together in our Kindermusik classes. It reinforces again the immeasurable and lifelong value of early childhood music classes – something the children adore and memories that we as adults can hold in our hearts long after those precious years of childhood are left behind.

Shared by Theresa Case whose Kindermusik program at Piano Central Studios in Greenville, SC, has given her a heart full of songs and musical memories that she knows she’ll enjoy for the rest of her life.

Children’s Book Review: Music Is…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]With its bright, colorful cover, Music Is…, wonderful board book, grabs your attention even before you even open it and read it. In many ways, it is a simple book with very few words on each page, but it is a wonderful teaching book – the perfect at-home library complement to the concepts children are learning and the musical styles they are being exposed to in Kindermusik class.

Each two-page spread is a contrast, which is perfect because young children learn best in contrasts. So just like Kindermusik introduces contrasting musical concepts and styles in class, Music Is… introduces contrasting concepts, moods, and styles, one concept per page, making it easy for young children to begin to grasp and for older children and adults to enjoy.[/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]It teaches concepts such as…

music is quiet
music is LOUD

music is sad
music is happy

music is lo-fi
music is hi-fi
a capella
instrumental
acoustic
electric

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The really lovely thing is that as the book is teaching music concepts, it is also developing a basic music vocabulary for parents and children alike. As the story unfolds, it is delightful to see children of all ethnic backgrounds making music and also playing with music. There are instruments and music makers on every page.

It’s an entertaining read-aloud for younger children and an engaging conversation starter for older children. For the sake of the non-musical adult, there’s even a basic glossary of musical terms on the very last page.[/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]The simple story line is enhanced by whimsical and interesting illustrations that explain what music is and explore how music makes us feel. It’s the kind of fun, feel-good story book you don’t mind reading over and over again…which is a good thing since it’s sure to become a family favorite![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]At the end, the author brings it all together in this profoundly beautiful conclusion:

music is old
music is new
music is for everyone
music is for you

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Music Is… by author Brandon Stosuy and illustrator Amy Martin can be found at your favorite local book seller or online in both physical and digital formats.[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text]Shared by Theresa Case whose award-winning Kindermusik program at Piano Central Studios in Greenville, SC, has been a happy advocate for the benefits of music for over 20 years now.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Musical Routines that Help Back to School Routines

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Whether it’s a first-time experience of going to school or having to say goodbye to an older sibling going to school, that change – as exciting as it may be – can also be unsettling for a child. Once-predictable routines are different. There’s a new schedule. Mom or Dad’s attention has to shift a bit, and maybe they’re feeling a little anxious about all the change too. Things just aren’t quite the same.

Finding something that’s familiar and comforting to keep constant in the midst of all of this change can go a long way towards helping a child successfully transition to a new routine. For many of our Kindermusik families, that “something familiar and comforting” is their Kindermusik classes… and the Kindermusik songs and activities they enjoy together in between classes throughout the week at home.

It may be tempting to let all activities go, even beloved ones like Kindermusik classes, in the face of big life changes like starting school or even welcoming a new little sibling into the family. It’s understandable for adults to feel a certain stress or concern over juggling an increasingly busy schedule, and you may feel concerned that it’s too much for your child too. But young children are actually relieved to have the comfort of a predictable activity with a Kindermusik class or teacher they adore, a setting that’s familiar, and all of their Kindermusik friends they enjoy seeing each week. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Even if the child is moving to a different Kindermusik class level or changing a class day and time, what they love and look forward to about Kindermusik doesn’t change. And that’s where the comfort is for them.

Here are some of our favorite musical routines guaranteed to help back-to-school routines become much smoother:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

Keep attending Kindermusik classes. You’ll be surprised at how calming this will be for your child… and for you! If you will let her know about the changes your family is facing, your Kindermusik teacher can be aware to give a little extra attention and TLC in the transition as well (an older sibling starting school is also a great time to get a younger child started in Kindermusik!).

Incorporate some Kindermusik songs into your new routines. Perhaps you’ll choose a little song to sing to your child as you wake them up each day, or maybe you turn on the Kindermusik CD or stream your Kindermusik songs as soon as you get in the car.

Create a playlist of your favorite Kindermusik Quiet Time or Cuddle Time songs. Keep that playlist handy when it’s one of “THOSE” mornings, or when your child just needs to calm and refocus after dropping big sister off at school or after a long day at school.

Make a sing-along playlist. How fun would it be to start the morning with a song in your heart and a big smile on your face?! Singing fun, favorite songs can do that for you! And no one will think twice if you’re belting out those songs along with your child…except that you might want to remember to change the playlist once your child gets out of the car!

Utilize the information for parents in your Kindermusik Home Materials to understand better where your child’s developmental stages and needs. There’s some really insightful information you can glean that will support you in easing your child through transition times, developmentally and scholastically.

Check out Sing Music Studio’s King Kong Kitchie sin-along below. These kids are having a blast![/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZvTtQPMn-o”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The things you love most about Kindermusik can continue to be the things you love most about Kindermusik, even through those times of transition and change. That’s the really wonderful thing about Kindermusik. It’s truly a beautiful beginning – and continuation – for you and your child.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Shared by Kindermusik educator Theresa Case, who has been sharing the delightful routines of Kindermusik with kids and families at Piano Central Studios for almost 25 years now.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][class_finder_form css=”.vc_custom_1500661347758{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-right: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;padding-left: 20px !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Our Favorite Musical Activities to Get You Through Your Child’s Day

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]At Kindermusik, we love finding and sharing ways to help make great parenting a little easier and a whole lot more musical! And we’re not shy about our claim to be creative musical experts when it comes to knowing just which activities are classroom favorites as well as at-home favorites for kids and parents. You don’t have to use all of these all of the time, but it’s great to keep a few of these ideas tucked into your back pocket to pull out throughout the day as needed.

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Sing a Good Morning song

This could be your Kindermusik hello song from class, or simply a song that you piggy-back (add your own words to a familiar tune), or a song that’s completely original. Sing this song often enough, and your child will come to adore their Good Morning song routine almost as much as you crave your morning coffee routine.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Music for Play Time

Inspire your child’s play or just keep their heart humming along. Simply stream your favorite Kindermusik songs from your phone, play your Music CD, or put that “favorites” playlist on a loop. The kind of music you choose can brighten the energy for the day or provide a little calm as needed.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

A Lullaby (or two!) at Nap Time

Establish a little routine of a lullaby or two before nap time, and nap time will go much more smoothly. We highly recommend gently rocking together as you sing and then giving a sweet little hug and kiss as you put your child down. If they want more music, turn on your Kindermusik lullaby playlist or even some light Classical music as they fall asleep.[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qVDgVe1yGOg&list=RDQMzqKp89HqbKw”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Music for Imagining and Playing

The type of music a child sings or hears can truly capture the imagination. Maybe there’s an art project on the agenda, or maybe the music can inspire the art project. For example, older children can be challenged to “draw what they hear in the music.” Or there can just be the nice happy background music for playing dress up or creating all kinds of things with homemade playdough, for example.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

A Dance before Supper

It’s been a long day for everyone, and supper time often becomes fussy time. As the pasta is boiling, take a minute to whisk your child around the kitchen for a quick little dance. Or make it a welcome home routine to do a happy little family dance with Dad when he walks in the door from work.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Read, Read, Read!

Music literacy and reading literacy go hand-in-hand, and we’re huge advocates of reading to your child any – and every! – chance you get. Keep that basket of favorite books handy (Here’s a list of some of our favorite titles). Reading a story together only takes a few minutes, but it’s amazing what a little cuddly lap time and one-on-one attention can do for you and your child.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

A Beloved Bedtime Routine

The bedtime routine can be quite musical too! A silly song as you scrub together and wash up in the tub, a sweet song as you get them in their pj’s, a calming bedtime story, and of course, the best end to a musical day – another lullaby.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]That’s a lot of music and musical activities for a day! But not to worry. You’ll find inspiration, new songs, parenting tips, and even more ideas in your weekly Kindermusik classes and Home Materials. And your child will absolutely blossom and thrive because of the music and the routines. You’ll love the memories you create as a result, and how these simple musical activities will help you linger together in the precious moments of childhood just a little bit longer.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Shared by Kindermusik educator Theresa Case, who has been sharing the wonders of Kindermusik with kids and families at Piano Central Studios for almost 25 years now.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][class_finder_form css=”.vc_custom_1500658279259{padding-top: 20px !important;padding-right: 20px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;padding-left: 20px !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Educator Spotlight: Louise MacDonald

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Lovingly known as Miss Louise by all and adorably called “Miss Moo-eeze” by some, Louise MacDonald has been bringing Kindermusik into the hearts and lives of children and families in Novia Scotia since 2003 when she became a licensed educator. She started her own Kindermusik business in the basement of her home 2005, but quickly outgrew the space. The name Joyful Sounds Music Studio was born in 2011, and her permanent studio location was developed in 2013. We join with Louise in celebrating a large expansion that she is opening in September of 2017![/vc_column_text][vc_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/226475036″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: Why did you first open your studio business?

LM: I have always been passionate about sharing my love of music with others. I know the positive impact music teachers had on my life as a child and youth, and I knew there was a need in the community and the timing felt right. I left my permanent teaching position as a public school music teacher and took a leap of faith, and I have never looked back.

TC: What’s something new and exciting that’s happening with your business, or a goal you have set for your business?

LM: Our studio is going through a massive growth year. We have just taken on 2000 extra square feet in our current commercial location. We will be offering more classes and lessons than ever before, and growing our incredible team. Everything is slated to be up and running in September, so we’ve got a very busy summer ahead of us!

TC: You are active not only in your own local community, but also in the Kindermusik educator community as well. Tell us a little about your involvement in both.

LM: I am currently sitting on the PKE Board (new name to be announced at conference!), I Lead the Children’s Liturgy program at my church, I volunteer at school when I can.

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

LM: Be Yourself! Know from the beginning WHY you are teaching Kindermusik, and then share that passion. Make every class a memorable one. Prep, prep, prep – it makes you the BEST educator!

TC: Without a doubt, you have taken your own advice to heart![/vc_column_text][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: This is always such a fun question to ask since we Kindermusik educators have 1000 (or more!) songs in our heads. What’s your favorite Kindermusik song to sing?

LM: My all-time favorite is Butterfly Wings. Right now at home, it’s the Hello-Lah song since my two-year old is obsessed with it.

TC: So now I have to know this, too. What is your favorite Kindermusik dance to lead?!

LM: Definitely Sail Away and Mama Paquita!

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

LM: That my cheeks get sore from smiling when I am teaching. There is so much joy in every single class. I am so blessed to do what I do.

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

LM: I find that when I am the best prepared for teaching the class, when my lesson plan is ready and my props are organized, then the magic can happen because I can be truly present with the children and the families. We can enjoy the time together playing, dancing and singing.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: I learn so much when I ask this question, so I hope you don’t mind. How do your Kindermusik or families describe you?

LM: Joyful, Special, Engaging, Personal, Caring, Amazing, Friendly, Loving.

TC: I couldn’t agree more!

TC: Describe some of the ways your experiences with your Kindermusik families have impacted you as an individual and a teacher.

LM: There have been many amazing families over the years that have impacted me as a teacher. I have received the most amazing cards and letters reminding me that what we are doing is making a difference in these families. I have seen families go through hard times, beautiful times, and I am blessed to be able to provide a place for them to have a musical outlet and community feeling.

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

LM: I think my amazing team of educators and staff, and our dedication to putting the families first has made us a success. We are committed to valuing each student, to nurturing them as musicians and people, and igniting the passion of music in their bodies. We hear time and again that we are personal, caring and providing high quality music education to our community.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]TC: When you’re not at the studio, what are some of your hobbies?

LM: I love to go camping with my family and spend time at the beach. Our summer is short and we try to make the most of it. In the winter, I love playing ice hockey on a local women’s team (yes, typical Canadian!). Right now with three small children, that’s about all the time I get for hobbies, and that’s perfectly okay. My husband V.J. and I are enjoying watching our children Cormac 8, Breton 5 and Flora 2 grow into sweet people. It is a beautiful life.

TC: What is your favorite inspirational quote?

LM: I’m not sure it’s very inspirational, but it certainly has kept me grounded for many years now. “Worries are like bedcrumbs – the more you wiggle, the more they scratch.”

TC: What’s something about being in the Kindermusik classroom that’s especially touching for you as a Kindermusik teacher?

LM: The most touching for me is every time a baby takes their first steps at Kindermusik class. I absolutely LOVE watching the parent experience that moment for the first time, and the celebration from the class that then happens. It never gets old. Being a part of the milestones that occur each week – from a child rolling over to a child learning how to play a tune on the glockenspiel. The learning that goes on fills my soul.[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][vc_column_text]Shared by Theresa Case who has an award-winning Kindermusik program at Piano Central Studios in Greenville, South Carolina.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Book Review: Skippyjon Jones by Judy Schnachner

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]How could you not love a book with a title character named Skippyjon Jones?! The adventures of Skippyjon Jones are a delightful series of books based on author Judy Schachner’s real-life Siamese cat.

Apparently, Skippyjon Jones is no ordinary pet. Because Skippyjon Jones is certainly no ordinary cat. And that’s precisely what makes the hilarious adventures of Skippyjon Jones so appealing and yet so relatable to adults and kids alike.

“Oh, I’m Skippyjonjones,
With a mind of my own,
And I’ll bounce on my bed for hours.
I know I’m a cat,
But forget about that…”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]The original story in the series, simply entitled Skippyjon Jones, introduces us to this uniquely lovable cat who has exasperated his mother who has to wake up Skippyjon Jones not in his bed, but in a bird nest outside. We immediately know we’re in for a lot of laughs as Mama Junebug Jones fusses at her little darling.

“No self-respecting cat ever slept with a flock of birds,” she scolded. “Or ate worms, or flew, or did his laundry in Mrs. Doohiggy’s birdbath.”

This is one of those rollicking read-aloud’s that draws you in from the very first page, keeps your attention all the way to end, and then makes you want to keep reading the next story in the series![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]From the way the words are laid out on each page to the colorful and whimsical illustrations, this book just makes you feel like becoming Skippyjon Jones as you read. You just can’t resist reading this book with drama, flair, and even adding in a song or two.

Preschoolers and big kids will especially love this story, and the others in the series because of the way the author invites you into Skippyjon Jones’s huge imagination, and the reader is delighted to discover a story within the story.

“With a walk into his closet, his thoughts took him down a lonesome desert road, far, far away in old Mexico…”

Oh, did I mention that the old Mexico part of the story line becomes possible because Skippyjon Jones is banished to his room after the incident with the birds?!

Skippyjon Jones embodies personality with a capital “P” – much like some of our own children. This story is not just fun for kids, it also helps adults discover all that there can be to appreciate and enjoy in a childhood filled with big imagination and creative play. It’s no wonder the book has won the E.B. White Read Aloud Award and why we wholeheartedly give it a two thumbs up.

Skippyjon Jones, written and illustrated by Judy Schachner and published by Puffin Books, may be purchased at your local bookseller or online at Amazon.com in Kindle, paperback, and hardcover formats.[/vc_column_text][vc_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Shared by Theresa Case who has an award-winning Kindermusik program at Piano Central Studios in Greenville, South Carolina[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Children’s Book Review: The Wonderful Things You Will Be

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Wonderful Things You Will Be is a stunningly gorgeous picture book, both in its sentiment and in its illustrations. Full of expectant promise and embodying the beauty of the unique potential that is in all of us, the author poignantly voices in lilting rhyme what is in every parent’s heart as they look at their child, whether it’s looking into that sweet tiny newborn face or the eyes of your child grown up too fast and about to graduate.

Written and illustrated by Emily Winfield Martin, The Wonderful Things You Will Be is one of those books that is a delight for both parents and children to read, and one of those beloved books you don’t mind reading over and over and over again. The story is full of hope, acceptance, and limitless possibility, but is written in such a way that its message deeply resonates in the hearts of young and old alike.
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Beautiful artwork accompanies the touching sentiments.

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“This is the first time
There’s ever been you,
So I wonder what wonderful things
You will do.”

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]With gentle humor and questions throughout the book, the author cleverly creates opportunities for lots of discussion about each person’s special gifts and the unique contribution he or she is meant to make to this world. But the author also states the loveliest of assumptions and timeless truths such as:[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

“I know you’ll be kind…
And clever…
and bold.
And the bigger your heart,
The more it will hold.”

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous, lending to the heart-tugging effect of the book, and with a very creative and surprise gatefold at the end, this is a delightful book to read, share, and gift. We’re sure it will become one of your favorites, just as it has quickly become one of ours!

The Wonderful Things You Will Be, written and illustrated by Emily Winfield Martin, is available at your local book shop and online at Amazon in both Kindle and hardcover formats.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Review contributed by Theresa Case who has had the joy of helping children and families begin to discover all of the wonderful things they can be through her award-winning Kindermusik program at Piano Central Studios in Greenville, South Carolina, for over 20 years now.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Music’s Effect on the Developmental Domains

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]When we say that music is a powerful tool for learning, one of the biggest reasons is because music positively affects every area of a child’s development. And for over 30 years, one of the strongest advocates for early childhood development through music and movement has been Kindermusik International.

With a music and movement curriculum entrenched in research and infused with joyful activities that make learning effortlessly fun, it’s no wonder that parents, experts, therapists, and doctors have recommended Kindermusik over and over again for an experience that inspires giggles, bonding, and learning in every critical area of a young child’s development.

But don’t just take our word for it. For some enlightening and fascinating resources, here are the links to some of that incredible research that is at the core of all that Kindermusik was founded, created, and built upon – research that continues to be affirmed over and over by further research and advances in technology.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Cognitive Development

[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/222523817″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Language & Literacy Development

[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/222523998″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Math & Logic Development

$Graphic-Learning-Domain-Icon-Math-Logic-144x144$ [/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/222524206″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Social-Emotional Development

[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/222524484″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Physical Development

[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/222524639″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Creative Development

[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/222524801″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Musical Development

[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/222525015″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]It doesn’t take an expert to see how every part of a child’s heart, soul, and mind can be powerfully impacted for a lifetime by early childhood music and movement classes. That’s why so many of us believe in the power of music, and because of that, believe in everything that is completely delightful and utterly magical about Kindermusik.

Want to learn more? Download these research studies from Kindermusik International.

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Shared by Theresa Case, who’s been making a difference in the lives of children and families through her award-winning Kindermusik program at Piano Central Studios in Greenville, South Carolina, for over 20 years now.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Educator Spotlight: Vanessa Lynch

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Lovingly known as “Nessa” or “Banessa” around Hive Creative Studios, Vanessa Lynch has been bringing the joy of Kindermusik to families and children in gorgeous New South Wales in Australia since 2011. Her families know her to be creative, generous, and hard-working, and it shows in Vanessa’s passion to use music education to inspire confidence, intelligence, and creativity in children of all ages at Hive. Visit Hive, and you’ll immediately understand why kids and families thrive at Hive! When Vanessa isn’t working on her studio, she loves cooking and kayaking on the lake with her family.

*Note from Theresa: Can you “hear” the Australian? We kept all of the Aussie spelling so that you could!

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Miss Vanessa and a captivated audience! — Nessa and a captivated audience!

[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]TC: Why did you open your business?
VL: That’s a long story! I’ll try to be brief. Back when I was studying at uni (university) to be a high school music teacher, I completed an honours thesis on the value and importance of music education in schools. Whilst studying this topic, I discovered so much research on the importance of music in early childhood.

That stuck with me through the first few years of high school music teaching. It niggled in my mind as I taught classes of 30 teens who couldn’t care less about music class, and had no musical ability. I realised the futility of our education system for music and the arts – children in the early years were missing out completely on any musical training, but kids in high school who were way past the ideal learning years were being made to learn keyboard and singing when they didn’t want to!

I found a job teaching in London primary schools where I taught the nursery kids right up to 12-year-olds. As a 22-year-old, I was captivated by the openness to learning and the natural aptitude to learn music that I saw in the 2-7 year-olds. At that point I began to think about teaching early childhood music, and writing my own program.

Fast forward 8 years, and I had finished having my own family and was ready to enter the workforce, or rather thrust back into the workforce as my Hubby wanted to go back to uni.

It was just a perfectly natural thing for me to open my own business teaching early childhood music rather than look for work in schools. I was fortunate enough to stumble across Kindermusik in my web searches, and the rest is history![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/222511357″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: What do you feel has made your studio business a success?
VL: Making the Kindermusik program ‘work’ in the culture of my community. Putting myself into the teaching so that the class experience comes to life like an art form, changing and refining my approach to teaching until it’s exactly what my clients want and need.

TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik song to sing?
VL: I really enjoy the quality jazz style songs, like Turn, Cinnamon, Turn and Whistle While You Work.

TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik dance to lead?
VL: The funny techno version of Wheels on the Bus on Zoom Baby! It makes us all laugh and the babies love it.

TC: What do you love most about being a Kindermusik educator?
VL: The sense of community and the satisfaction of sowing goodness, and artistic ability into people’s lives.

TC: If you had to name just one secret to success in the Kindermusik classroom, what would it be?
VL: If something isn’t working, change your approach – don’t complain or blame.

TC: What’s the funniest OR most touching thing that’s ever happened to you as a Kindermusik teacher?
VL: I teach my best friend’s daughter which is really special. When she was 2 years old, one day she climbed into my lap while I was teaching, and all of a sudden she realised that she was now the teacher! And she started commanding the whole class – echoing everything I said and calling out instructions to them all. Everyone dissolved into giggles! :)[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

Parents and children "have a ball" at Hive Creative Studios. — Parents and children “have a ball” at Hive Creative Studios.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][blockquote cite=”Vanessa Lynch”]”I love the sense of satisfaction in working with a child from birth up to school age and watching their talent grow and blossom.”[/blockquote][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: Describe a teaching experience or favorite Kindermusik family that has impacted you as a teacher.
VL: One special family joined Kindermusik in my 2nd term of teaching. I only had a tiny collection of instruments and was really experimenting every week in the lessons to find the best way to teach (not easy after high school teaching!). She was so patient and lovely, and would make pointed, but kind suggestions every week that helped me to start making the Kindermusik program work for the kids I was teaching, rather than just ‘delivering’ the lesson. She brought both of her children to us until they started school, and I have always been grateful to her for sticking with me in those early years.

TC: If you could share one tip with a new Kindermusik educator, what would it be?
VL: Start teaching Kindermusik because you love investing in people. When you feel frustrated by families in your classes, think about how you can change your approach, and as you do, it will change the families and grow your business.

TC: What’s something new and exciting that’s happening with your business, or a goal you have set for your business?
VL: Oooooh right now I am very excited! We have just released our newest program at Hive called ‘Bee-School’ – a Creative alternative to Pre-School’ (all our programs are named to do with Bees). It’s a 3.5 hour drop off program that will include a full Kindermusik class, followed by an art, drama and Spanish class. I can’t wait to see how this goes, and we have loads of interest from the community. We don’t have any half-day childcare centres in our city, and we want to make the arts more accessible to families, so this is an exciting new concept for our community.

TC: What do you love most about being a Kindermusik educator?
VL: I love the sense of satisfaction in working with a child from birth up to school age and watching their talent grow and blossom. It’s exciting to see the potential that develops in each child.

TC: What makes your studio such a special place?
VL: It’s a happy place where every person is valued and treated with kindness and respect, and in return our staff are treated with kindness and respect by each other and by all of the clients. There are very few businesses around where kindness and respect for each other, and care for people over and above profit are normal everyday occurrences.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Emotion

Memory

Learning and Neuroplasticity

Attention

Sing a Good Morning song

Music for Play Time

A Lullaby (or two!) at Nap Time

Music for Imagining and Playing

A Dance before Supper

Read, Read, Read!

A Beloved Bedtime Routine

“This is the first time There’s ever been you, So I wonder what wonderful things You will do.”

“I know you’ll be kind… And clever… and bold. And the bigger your heart, The more it will hold.”

“This is the first time
There’s ever been you,
So I wonder what wonderful things
You will do.”

“I know you’ll be kind…
And clever…
and bold.
And the bigger your heart,
The more it will hold.”