In my music enrichment classes for young children, I often read stories to which I add repeated, sung phrases or “sound effects” children can join in on. I find this adds: 1. Engagement as children focus in on the story and listen for the auditory cues for “their part,” […]
Tag Archives: stories
Is this a leopard or a cheetah? Not sure? Keep reading… Is it too late to make a New Year’s resolution? Because I’d like to make one today. (Sorry, Jan. 1 through 26!) I resolve to follow up on every scientific inquiry made by one of my young students. Even when it’s masquerading as an […]
Learning About Bats With a Song Kids LOVE! Bats are so cute!! Yes, you read that right. C’mon, how cute is this little guy? Bats are also the most populous mammals on Earth, next to rats (which aren’t cute). (Sorry, rat lovers!) So it’s good for children to learn about these furry flyers. This week, […]
That time of year is almost here – September! It’s when early childhood teachers welcome new students – always an exciting and challenging time. It’s also when many of us start units on apples. They’re in season, and conveniently, they help children learn shapes (circles), colors (red, but sometimes green and yellow too), healthy eating, […]
“I’m the Best!” by Lucy Cousins “I’m the Best” is a wonderful story for music time or any time – young children LOVE it! No one can be the best at everything! Not even Dog. His confidence is great, but it goes a little too far. Because he can swim better than Donkey, dig better than […]
This article originally appeared in Teachers Net Gazette in May 2012. Using Puppets to Improve Reading Comprehension Have you ever heard anyone argue with a puppet? I have. I recently read “Henny Penny” to a class of four-year-olds. After the story, Henny Penny herself (in puppet form) came out of my bag, and she was […]
“Bear Flies High” by Michael Rosen There are two reasons I love “Bear Flies High”: first of all, it’s a gorgeous vision of summertime, with beach, ocean, seagulls, carnival rides, sunshine. and fun with friends. Secondly, as a music teacher, I love the lilting, rhythmic writing (which was also a feature of Rosen’s earlier book, […]
