A recent email conversation with a mom reminded me of something that I have not yet written about but feel very strongly in: all children need to have quality interaction with their contemporaries, children younger than themselves, and older children. I have had to condense all of my enrollments into a Family Time multi-age class this summer. I love to be able to provide a multi-age atmosphere for fun and learning! In our society, children are grouped with their peers in most areas of social interaction. I think this is detrimental to the children, their parents, and our society as a whole. I don't think that parents are really meant to be one of the only examples that children follow and children need examples in addition to family memebers. Children need examples of behavior at various stages of development before they get there so they can know what to expect and the older children are valued and value themselves for being the example they are. One mom who came with both of her daughters to try out my Family Time class told me that it was so great to see the self-confidence in her 6 year old during my class. I really can't think of a better way to promote pro-social behavior in children (and don't we really do the same as adults to some extent?) So, once again, Kindermusik has formulated a class for the good of the students, their parents, the teachers (I can teach what I am passionate about: the development of human person as a social creature), and society as a whole. How I wish that I could open up 10 Family Time classes this summer!! To the benefit of all! Come, Rejoice With Me!
I recently invited some children and their parents to come and try out a class for free! One almost 3 year old girl came with her mom, dad, and newborn baby sister! She (like most) had a glorious time and loved the class. After the goodbye song when her mom and dad were getting ready to leave, she exclaimed "Mom, I like this game!" Isn't it fun how children view things?
I would love to hear some of your insights and stories here! Feel free to post them under "Comments"! Do you share magic in your day with your child (whether musical or not)? Do you have insights to share? Are you reading a great book you'd like others to find out about? Do you have inspiring stories to share? Whether or not you come to my classes, it would be fun to share with other lovers of life!!!
