Let us teach little children to breathe, to vibrate, to feel and to become one with the general harmony and movement of nature. Let us first produce a beautiful human being, a singing and dancing child.” –Isadora Duncan

Brain development is a prominent topic in Early Childhood.  Much of what early childhood professionalshave known and felt about the importance of our work with children is being validated in new and exciting ways by recent brain research.  The importance of the ARTS in a child’s early experiences is being supported by the work of Dr. John Beaulieu, Dr. Edwin Gordon, Dr. Fran Rauscher, and Dr. Bruce Perry.

The exciting news is that participating in music, movement and lyric activities not only develops language, mathematics, science, logic and rhythmic abilities, it also strengthens the synapses between brain cells!  Research shows that these synapses grow stronger through their use in active participation with music and movement.  These essential activities at an early age can actually create new neural pathways and fortify those that are already present.  Neuroscientists see rhythmic movement with lyric and song as “brilliant neurological exercises” which help the brain to be used to its full capacity … which occurs (according to Dr. Edwin Gordon) right after birth.  At infancy a child has all the synapses needed to speak any language, to learn and appreciate music and movement, but they must be used.  Our job as adults is to involve children in music and movement every day.

The Kinderpillar Music and Movement seminars are designed for just that! Providing your children with activities that build brains and develop creative thinking, this program is essential to your child’s multi-sensory development. Why is this? Here are a few facts to consider…

Brain Fact: Music, movement and dramatics influence and shape healthy development of all parts of the brain, and in turn, these parts of the brain mediate creativity.  While artistic activities are usually thought of as a right-brain activity, the left-brain is involved in deciding how to express and create. When your child explores a new song, adds a movement or finger play he or she is connecting both sides of the brain. These are skills, which will be necessary to learn how to read!

Brain Fact: Finger plays and hand movements build your child’s brain. Small muscle movements encourage the development of spatial-reasoning skills. Studies show that activities that ask children to manipulate their fingers can actually activate cognitive development in young children by enhancing the connections in the brain.

Brain Fact: Just the process of listening to music is helpful in your child’s brain development. It can increase memory and build stronger attention spans and listening skills. These skills are very important for school success.

Brain Fact: Music and movement lowers stress levels in children and releases endorphins, which create a sense of well-being and calm. Instead of telling your child to do something…sing it! You may notice a difference in the response.

Brain fact: Movement activities increase blood flow throughout the body and to the brain. Interestingly, it has been found that there is a direct link between movement/exercise and creativity. Put on some music and dance around the house with your child. It is not only fun but also brain building.

Brain Fact: Play a Kazoo! Research shows that kazoos are excellent tools for brain development! The vibration that resonates in the mouth and head activates the bone structure and the vestibular system. In short…your head is buzzing! Activities with the kazoo help children use listening skills and literacy skills as they use their “inner voice or dialog” to create communication.  Use them to play “Name that Tune”, play echo patterns, or have a musical conversation with your child.

Fun Fact: Perhaps most importantly, music and movement is FUN. It is a way to communicate with your child that is playful and loving. It is a time for creativity and sharing. Music is the world’s most universal language. We may not know the words but the music always speaks to us. When you share music with your child you enter and expanded world view that if filled with Joy and Community.