Musical Parenting Tip:  Play with the tempo (speed) and dynamics (volume) of music.
Why?
·      When your Preschool child is asked to move to a changing tempo, it helps him internalize the steady beat.
·      Learning & development are not compartmentalized but integrated; what happens in one area affects and influences other areas much as in a domino effect.
·      Integrating tempo & dynamics into an activity creates an integrated learning experience for your child – also using his singing voice and listening skills.
How?
·      Sign into your Kindermusik @ Home account, and check out the ‘Where’s Jack’ activity.  Be sure to read the ‘Math in the Box’ comments, to see all of the ways that math readiness is integrated into the game!
·      Then, try out a game of Simon Says!  Can you add loud & quiet, or fast & slow to your game?
·      Make your own ‘Grasshopper Park’ at home!  Allow your child to discover items around your house to represent the seesaw, the swings, the slide, and the ‘walking music.’  With your child, place each item around the room.  Then, turn on the instrumental track, from your home CD, and enjoy moving to, and ‘playing on’ each of the playground toys!  Is the slide moving slower today, because of rain?  Is the seesaw moving faster after being repaired?  Is the wind blowing quietly through the swings?  How will you add dynamics and tempo?
Want to learn more?
On our blog – read Music: The Ultimate Playlist for School Readiness.
Also – 6 Ways Kindermusik Prepares Children for Formal Music Lessons