by Beverly Smith, Kindermusik mom
While we’re adjusting to a new normal, kids and adults alike are experiencing new difficulties and finding creative solutions. For my family, some difficulties are the loss of play dates, church gatherings and special family time with grandparents. We also greatly miss our friends from Kindermusik. Although most are things we can’t restart yet, thanks to the efforts of our Kindermusik staff, teachers and technology, our Kindermusik classes are still part of our weekly routine. Every Monday, my daughters are excited to see the smiling faces of Ms. Lisa and Ms. Angela. Not only does my oldest daughter, Isabelle, attend her Level 3 class, she also attends her sister’s Cuddle and Bounce class with her baby doll. Kindermusik is a bright light during a difficult time.
While stuck inside, we’ve also enjoyed our class content in a more convenient way using the new Kindermusik app. (There’s some content/albums for the general public on the app, but our class music is “delivered” via the app to enrolled families, and is music that’s associated with what we are doing in class; it had made my music library an extensive one!) I find myself accessing its content all the time. Anytime and anywhere — crafts, chores, playtime, nap time or just going for a walk, you’ll find us using the app. Not only can we listen to the units we’ve used during previous classes, there’s also dozens of options for music albums, videos, and other resources included for free. Our favorite music content is the “Sing Along!” album and the Nursery Rhyme genre.
It can also be a tool to supplement your child’s school work by pulling up the theme section of the app. Find a theme that matches their current classwork, like a science unit or novel and enjoy some movement with music.
Don’t fret if you can’t find the right music, with the app you can make and record your own! Record your children playing the drums, slide whistle, triangle and more. My daughter loves this part of the app the most.
Attending these virtual classes, along with the brand new Kindermusik app, is bringing my family some much needed normalcy during this strange and stressful time. While I hope things return to normal soon, I’m incredibly grateful for Kindermusik with Music Connections Foundation, their guidance, and the consistent routine and joy it helps bring to our days at home.