Music Together for Preschoolers

It has been my experience that many families stop bringing their children to Music Together when they pass out of the toddler phase. I understand that preschool and other classes sometimes cause a conflict in scheduling, but I also think that children often start to express a reluctance to come to music class. Parents are understandably reluctant to pay for a Session of classes that their children aren't excited about. However, the music class environment continues to be important for older children but for different reasons than for toddlers and babies. Older preschoolers often have attained a certain level of musical competence (meaning they can sing in tune and keep a steady beat to a song that they hear). But at this age, it's common for preschoolers to start to notice others in the class, and they suddenly realize that they can't make music with the same ease as the adults in class. Of course this promotes a certain self-consciousness and return to shyness, or that they would prefer to avoid an event where their purpose or *place* isn't clear.

Preschoolers benefit greatly from support of them continuing to make music in a group setting and especially of honoring their ideas and leadership. If your preschooler starts to express a reluctance to come to Music Together, have a non-pressure talk with him to see if he has any specific issues that challenge him. Of course, the parent is going to know best in these situations, but I do urge you to consider

* Feelings of self-consciousness are normal, but they can persist and worsen if your child isn't encouraged to push on through the challenge. As long as Music Together class isn't actually traumatic for her, there's much benefit to be had from supporting your child's attendance through the difficulty. As with any age, there's no need to pressure any amount of active participation! It's enough to be there and see the adults participating joyfully and un-selfconsciously. After a few weeks, she may venture into the circle again and find a new participation role more fitting to this new stage of maturity.

* Your child is likely to have challenges with other settings or tasks in the future. If your child has difficulty with a certain school subject later on, chances are he won't get to just quit. You'll sit and talk with him and gently let him know that you'll help him and support him through the challenge so that he can succeed.

I always love to get suggestions from the children in class for movements, lyrics, and sounds that the group can make. I think the older children are the most likely to have some creative ideas. However, in the noise and activity of class, it can be difficult for them to speak up or to be heard. Please advocate for your preschooler when she has an idea to share with the class. You may need to make the suggestion yourself so that I can hear it, but you can certainly attribute the idea to your child. "Emerson would like for us to make train sounds."

The bottom line is that you know what is best for your child, but please consider these thoughts when determining whether to continue to bring your preschooler to Music Together. They DO have their place! We just have to help them find it.