Why do they say Kindermusik is a "wholistic" experience for my child?

During each semester, parents gain tools (home materials) and information about enhancing their home and life environments with the joyful expression of music in it's many forms.  These musical additions naturally promote developmental issues concerning the WHOLE child: physical, emotional, social, cognitive, language, and, of course, musical skills.  Developmental issues are briefly discussed in class, and are followed up through weekly emails and/or handouts that give more ideas and explain the whys and hows that make it work.

Is musical training important at such a young age?

All children are musical, and it is so rewarding as a parent to support this budding interest in your child and watch it blossom.  New songs, fun activities, new props and instruments to explore, a chance to do it all together as a family...  all of this leads to such joy and personal growth.  When you see your child clap for the first time, or sing their first song (spontaneously, all by themselves), or hear the unique song your child makes up for the first time, or is just found wandering around bursting with joyful song, or plays a song correctly on an instrument, or asks you to sing a certain song that soothes their soul.  They are wrapped up in a world that will bring them joy, and accompany their other emotions as they travel through life.  Many families cite that their child's enthusiasm for music is one of the best benefits !

What are the benefits of this type of group setting?

It is also a great opportunity to provide your child with a group structured activity.  Many children may have limited contact with other children, or have not participated in a structured setting.  Through the process of the 8 - 15 week semester, children become comfortable with being around the same people, and are more likely to interact with the other adults and students in appropriate ways.  This is true whether they are very shy, or if they are on the boisterous side.  The routine of the class may be hard for some at first because they are used to free play, but as the weeks progress, the children begin to "catch the flow" of the class, and participate more effectively, esp. when they are familiar with the songs and activities because they are also enjoying them at home.  In the younger classes, parents are right there with them, helping them learn to participate effectively in a structured environment.  In the older classes, the fun imaginative and seemless transitions help the students interact with others, be a part of a creative team, and also promotes their individual personalities.  The process of Kindermusik, with the support of the teacher and the parent, is a powerful teaching tool for life skills they will need at school and in the world.