Kindermusik By Tandy

New Blog

2011-04-25T06:25:00.002-04:00

I started a new blog for a new season of work.

You can find it here http://tandyj.com

See you there!

Groovy dance moves

2009-08-31T19:40:00.002-04:00

"[My boy] is now 5.5 yrs old and attending 1st grade - he is thriving in academics and sports, and just learned to whistle yesterday. He also has an expansive repertoire of groovy dance moves and puts on concerts for us regularly - a charming side effect of being in your Kindermusik classes as a toddler. :)"

2008-12-28T21:25:00.011-05:00

Listening

2008-12-27T15:10:00.003-05:00

During my break, I have also been reflecting on listening. We have listening activities in every class. We listen to all different kinds of sounds like dogs barking or a doorbell ringing. It is important for children (and adults for that matter) to cultivate a listening spirit. Deep enjoyment of music comes from really knowing how to listen. As parents, don't you want your child to listen to you? And believe it or not, it is a child's natural inclination to want to listen to their parents and do what is pleasing in their sight. If we help a child to cultivate a listening spirit, we are helping them to be able to enjoy music more deeply now and for years to come. We are also helping them as social creatures so that they will be able to really listen to other people when they get older. By listening to other people, they can learn to be empathetic and caring. Listening is a skill that must be learned. Hearing is not listening. We hear with our ears but we listen with our spirit. So, let's all cultivate a listening spirit so we can have an ever deepening enjoyment of the art of music and our fellow human beings! By listening, we can be as much an artist as the composer of the piece we are listening to! After all, that's why the Composer spent the time to create the piece!!!

Keeping the Singing Circle

2008-12-27T14:28:00.002-05:00

During my Christmas break, I have been reading a book in which the author tells about the various meanings of different shapes. She says that the circle represents love. As I reflected on this (I definitely like circles as my shape of choice). I was thinking about my classes.

I sing a song about making a circle, keep singing it until we have formed a circle, and insist that we keep the circle at various times in the class. Why do I do that? I won't stand for anything less than a singing circle. Neat rows of children and parents just won't do! It has to be a circle! Why?

I have noticed in my classes, that when we keep the singing circle we all socialize much easier. We can see each other's faces as we play together. We form a small community. It simply just feels better all around. It helps us to connect with each other and celebrate being human! We can see each child and parent bonding in love. This is very inspiring to be a part of!

Think about it. When you get together for a birthday party or other family gathering, don't you all stand around the birthday child in a circle as if to encircle him/her in the love of those present? Imagine if you all sat in nice rows to sing happy birthday. It would feel completely different.

So, in Kindermusik class, we are going to sing the "Let's make a circle" song and keep the singing circle at the appropriate times. I would like to think that I am contributing in a small way to your family life in helping to create an environment in which you are free to play in love with your child. Also, I would like to think that I am making a small contribution to society at large by helping to form children who will grow up to understand something about what community means.

So, LET'S MAKE A CIRCLE, CIRCLE, CIRCLE. LET'S MAKE A CIRCLE. A CIRCLE OF FRIENDS!!!!

Laughter

2008-12-18T19:25:00.002-05:00

For our listening activity tonight we listened to a recording of children laughing. It was definitely contagious! Maybe everyone who has caught the bug that's going around ought to try laughing! We found it to be good medicine tonight!

Sharing

2008-12-11T20:24:00.004-05:00

Tonight I witnessed one boy having a joy filled moment playing instruments. He looked around to see who he could share it with. He spotted another child and gave her an instrument. They shared the joy together. This was a 2 year old boy. His mom didn't have to ask him to share and there was absolutely no forcing involved. He just wanted to experience the moment with someone. How fabulously human!

Getting up after a fall

2008-12-11T19:19:00.003-05:00

I was very inspired tonight by my students. I often think about the simplicity of the childlike spirit and admire them for showing me what is important in life sometimes. Tonight during ball play, these little ones ran and kicked and played and had so much fun! Never mind that they kept falling more than usual. That wouldn't stop them. Not while there was so much fun to be had playing ball games! Of course, I am not talking about serious injuries here. That would be a different matter entirely. But I am talking about the little bumps in the road. They fell with a smile and got up with one too! If only we all could be this childlike! Think of how much easier our lives would be! I wish they could understand how grateful I am to them sometimes. They inspire me to be the very best person I can be! We've all heard the expression "out of the mouths of babes." Personally, I am more interested in seeing things through their eyes!

Cooperation

2008-12-09T11:59:00.007-05:00

During ball play this morning I was reminded of a powerful truth we adults must remember when working with very small children. I usually offer to play catch with children who come to me during ball play. If they want to, I lead the game to show them how it is done. Very small children don't have much experience cooperating with other people so we must be very patient with them. It is the process of learning that is the most important although, as adults, we do have the goal in mind: showing them how the game is played. Another goal is to enrich their life by leading them in a cooperative experience and our lives are also enriched as a result. So in a game of catch, we both benefit! Cooperation with other people enriches the life of every human person and children are no exception. Children, in fact, have a very natural and good desire to cooperate. One little one I was playing with today needed extra patience. At first, she had a hard time understanding what the expectation was and threw the ball all over the place instead of right in my arms. It felt like chaos for a bit but she finally caught on and we had a marvelous time! So, let's make having cooperative experiences with children a priority in our dealings with them! Our lives will be enriched for it for years to come!

2008-11-01T10:18:00.001-04:00

"Parents don't want their children to make the wrong decisions, so they don't allow them to make the decision. And then the child becomes dependent, and then the parent resents that, and it gets off into a blameful thing early on. If you are encouraging children to do all that they can do -- and not squelching the natural eagerness that is within them, so that they can shine and thrive and show you and themselves how good they are at adapting to physical experience -- then everyone wins."

Excerpted from a workshop in Dallas, TX on Saturday, March 13th, 1999

Our Love,
Jerry and Esther

I found this insightful. What do you think? Anything? Feel free to share it here.

Parent Reviews

2008-03-23T12:50:00.002-04:00

Reviewer's Name:
Marie Kuge
Comments:
Miss Tandy's class feel carefully planned and adapted to the students; She has a talent for connecting with children, but also respecting individuality. We learned to use music for engaging the senses, mood, learning and fun!

Reviewer's Name:
Laurel Krueger
Comments:
Tandy Brown is wonderful with children. Her class has really opened my son up to music! He loves it. We sing about everything we do throughout the week, like washing our hands and getting dressed. He loves to sing because of Kindermusik.

Reviewer's Name:
Kelly Forsyth
Comments:
Tandy Brown - Kindermusik gave my daughter a chance to interact with other children her age, experince familiar activities in a new environment and move and explore at her own pace. I highly recommend the class!

Reviewer's Name:
Carrie Wieneke
Comments:
Ms Tandy was wonderful. Our son was only 2 months when we started and the youngest in the class, but she had great ideas to make all ages involved.

Reviewer's Name:
Emily Morris
Comments:
Ms. Tandy creates a very welcoming environment for the children and parents. She moves very well between active/movement segments and quieter, singing or resting activities. The children stay engaged throughout the entire class.

Reviewer's Name:
JoAnn Sadler
Comments:
Since joining this class my son has come right out of his shell. He used to be very shy about singing but now, after being in this class, he just belts out a tune whenever it fancies him.

Reviewer's Name:
Diana Witowski
Comments:
The environment poses a perfect opportunity to bond with your child(ren). It's clear that the syllabus has been carefully developed and "kid-approved". I consider myself a pretty particular mom and this class comes highly recommended.

Reviewer's Name:
Leigh Miller
Comments:
My son has enjoyed Kindermusik with Miss Tandy for the last 18 months. The classes are child and parent friendly as well as benefical for language and soical development. I would recommend Kindermusik with Tandy.

Reviewer's Name:
Stacy Gajewski
Comments:
Awesome class! We love how Mrs. Tandy sings, dances and has a fun learning environment for the children. Our daughter plays, reads and loves the take home materials and uses them all the time.

Reviewer's Name:
Stacey Rumpsa
Comments:
I would highly recommend the Kindermusik classes through Miss Tandy. My daughter (22 mos) loves her class and it's been neat to see her progress and how excited she gets. We definitely plan to sign up for another one.

Reviewer's Name:
Christine Baranowski
Comments:
As a parent of 2 students in the Imagine That class, I truly appreciate the oonstant feedback that Ms. Tandy provides! My kids ABSOLUTELY adore Ms. Tandy!

Reviewer's Name:
James Moore
Comments:
Our daughter absolutely loves Ms. Tandy. This is the second class we have enrolled her in. Each class has been beneficial and fun for our daughter and we highly recommend Ms. Tandy.

Reviewer's Name:
Brian Rosbury
Comments:
Our children have been attending Kindermusik by Tandy classes for the past two years. They look forward to class each week because it is so much fun!

Reviewer's Name:
Melissa Borden
Comments:
Ms.Tandy is just awesome, She has been very patient with our 2 yr old daughter who is very apprehensive about everything and because of her patience our daughter now participates in class and talks about it all week with so much excitement.

Reviewer's Name:
Kristen Smith
Comments:
We have so much fun in Ms. Tandy's Our Time class. My 2 year old son sings the songs he learns in class all the time and he's developing a very musical ear!

Reviewer's Name:
Suzanne Kirsch
Comments:
Tandy Brown is a fantastic instructor. Both of my daughters go to the Our Time class since Family Time didn't fill up. She has great ideas for including the baby in the activities that the older kids are doing.

Reviewer's Name:
James Moore
Comments:
Our daughter absolutely loves the class! Ms. Tandy does an excellent job facilitating the learning of musical awareness through imaginative play. I highly recommend the class!

Reviewer's Name:
Tracey Pierson
Comments:

Reviewer's Name:
Shanyn Paluszewski
Comments:
Tandy is has a very gentle and soothing voice which I think is great for the kids. She is also always very upbeat and energetic. Great Class!

Reviewer's Name:
Angie Januszkowski
Comments:
Tandy was very good with all the children, she is very kind and patient and the kids have a great time in the class. It is also very good for the parents because you make new friends and that makes it fun for everyone.

Reviewer's Name:
Tracey Pierson
Comments:
Tandy Brown

Reviewer's Name:
Susan Lock
Comments:
My daughter Jadyn was very bashful at first but Mrs. Tandy makes all of the kids feel so welcome and they all have a great time (and the parents too). Jadyn has really come out of her shell and enjoys the class.

Reviewer's Name:
Cathy Brodie
Comments:
My son is currently enrolled in his second music class with Ms. Tandy and is having a great time. Ms. Tandy is a very good teacher and is fantastic with all her students.

Reviewer's Name:
Kayrl Reynoso
Comments:
We really enjoyed our class with Tandy Brown. She was very kind to all young students and my son had a great time. We hope to be a part of another class in the future!

Reviewer's Name:
Jean-Louise Manwell
Comments:
Tandy is a great educator. We were hoping for more at home materials but when you think about it it's not a regular kindermusik. Great class and our son is using signs independently of us asking him to respond in sign. It is fabulous!

Reviewer's Name:
Stacy Gajewski
Comments:
Miss Tandy is a wonderful, energetic, and organized educator who has a love for music and children. Stacy and Ava

Reviewer's Name:
Janet Hughes
Comments:
My 2 1/2 year old daughter absolutely loves Our Time with Miss Tandy, and she is always asking to listen to "Miss Tandy's music." Tandy values all the children, and she is very knowledgable about their developmental needs.

Reviewer's Name:
Melissa Ceballos
Comments:
We had Kindermusik by Tandy for my daughter's 1st birthday party. The kids had a blast!!! Recommend using Kindermusik as a unique way to entertain/teach young minds at a birthday party :o)

Reviewer's Name:
Ewa Lebert
Comments:
This is the second consecutive semester for my daughter and she continues to grow. From learning to share and follow directions to encouraging different skills, I am very satisfied with Tandy's classes.

Reviewer's Name:
Laura Watt
Comments:
My son and I love Tandy's class! The music and materials are wonderful. Tandy is enthusiastic and responsive to her students. This class has been a great experience for my child.

Reviewer's Name:
Jennifer Pegouske
Comments:
We have been very happy and impressed with Kindermusik by Tandy. She is an excellent teacher and really pays attention to the needs of each child. We will defintely be signing up for another class!

Reviewer's Name:
Christine Rosbury
Comments:
Miss Tandy is a talented educator!I have a 3 and 1.5 year old in the same class and BOTH enjoy the pace and energy of Our Time. I am very appreciative of her incorporation of fine and gross motor movement along with pro-social skills.

Reviewer's Name:
Lorrie Guarino
Comments:
Tandy has a true love of music and children. Her enthusiasm shows through in her teaching of Kindermusik!

Reviewer's Name:
Kelly Mundt
Comments:
Tandy did a great job working the class format around a span of ages to keep all kids involved!

Reviewer's Name:
Rene' Bohlen
Comments:
Thank you so much Tandy!! We had so much fun in your class. You had wonderful energy, great interaction skills with the children, and always a pleasant smile. Our daughter loved the class and continues to sing the songs everyday!

Reviewer's Name:
Becky Ricci
Comments:
My daughter absolutely loved Kindermusik classes with Tandy. Tandy is energetic and knows how to engage the children. She is very passionate about Kindermusik and that is definetely reflected in her classes.

Reviewer's Name:
Audra Melton
Comments:
Tandy is always on time, friendly, flexible, and obviously likes music and children. Knowledgable regarding benefits of music for children.

Fall Classes

2007-08-14T14:22:00.000-04:00

You may see my fall schedule of classes and register at http://tandy.kindermusik.net

See you in class!

Summer Child of the Earth

2007-07-21T11:27:00.000-04:00

It's important to play in the dirt!!! It helps the immune system, connects you to the earth and the world around you , and is just plain FUN!!!

Summer Inspiration

2007-07-21T11:25:00.000-04:00

Summer Sessions

2007-06-08T21:49:00.001-04:00

You can check out my schedule for the 5 week Summer Sessions at http://tandy.kindermusik.net

See you in class!

Sandcastle

2007-05-28T12:19:00.000-04:00

Glorious mount of majesty
made by your little hands.
The magic that it contains is held
within your heart.
Sunny days in the sand become
a paradise
for you to grow
and learn what it means
to be royalty
Little one,
let me help you to build
your Sandcastle

Doin' Our Own Thing!!

2007-04-27T12:09:00.000-04:00

Class was energetic last night. The kids had tons of energy!! Spring is in the air! But this post is more about us adults and the bonding that happened because we were all able to accept things as they were.

We had a jam along with the egg shakers. None of the kids ended up joined our jammin' circle. The were all at the other end of the room playing together. They were looking at each other, smiling, laughing with each other, and touching each other. They were bonding on a deeper level than a jam along.

We allowed it to happen without trying to manage them to participate in the jam along. All of us adults were in our circle looking at each other, smiling, and laughing: bonding.

Did I mention that these are 2 year olds? So much for parallel play!!!

Great Grandma Came: Alone!!!

2007-04-27T12:06:00.000-04:00

The most energetic great grandma I have ever seen brought 2 year old TWINS to class today because Mom had an appointment! She was dancing and playing with the rest of us!! I am sure she had a great time as did the girls. What a great way to spend time with your great grandchildren!!

If you stay long enough...

2007-04-26T15:34:00.000-04:00

You just might find the spirit of your own inner child. I am not necessarily talking about self help kind of stuff (even though who of us couldn't use the help?). I am talking about that spark of inner creativitiy, joy, and passion to get up every morning and live your life to the fullest! If you come with your child, and are open, not only will your child open to the joy, creativity, and magic of music, you will open to your own inner spark. If you are open...

Miracle: Definition

2007-03-30T08:08:00.000-04:00

And I get to see them every class! Let's remember all of the small miracles we see every day! Especially in children!

Art Gallery

2007-03-01T08:39:00.000-05:00

Here is another work of art by one of my students. Isn't it just fantabulous?

An Insiders Perspective

2007-02-17T00:22:00.000-05:00

Can you tell which ones are sisters?

Scaffolding

2007-02-09T12:47:00.000-05:00

In the Kindermusik classroom, we gently guide each child's learning and fun by responding to what the child is doing and is able to do. This is a child-centered approach to learning. For example, instead of telling a child what to do the moment the take the bells in their hands, we wait and see what the child will do. Then we might build on that by challenging the child to do something else or something a little harder. If they don't want to do what we suggest, no problem: we back off and start the process again. If they choose to respond to our suggestion, we continue the process as the child is open. We may even just sit back and allow the child to explore however they wish. And we all have a grand time!

Child Safety: Gates and Bells

2007-02-08T22:18:00.000-05:00

In my Village class tonight, a little 11 month old picked up a set of bells recommended for a 3 year old that I had set up for the next class. She started playing them right away and had a wonderful time. It got me to thinking about child safety. I am not really expressing an opinion but making an observation and perhaps asking a question. One of my 2 year old students broke her arm by climbing over the baby gate her parents had blocking the stairway. I have heard so many stories like this. Her parents took away the baby gate and decided that it was time to let her go up and down the stairs. They felt that less risky than keeping up the baby gate. The bells that Kindermusik recommends for 2 year olds, the babies love and the 2 year olds find boring. Try to find developmentally appropriate drums for a 6 month old and you will find some instruments that barely sound like the real thing. First time parents are generally very careful to buy everything considered "safe" for their baby. After a while, though, most change their ways to what they feel is more realistic. So, mom bought some 3 year old bells for her 11 month old tonight and I am sure she will have a rockin' 11 month old experience with her 3 year old bells!!!

The Schedule is In!!

2006-12-01T14:44:00.000-05:00

You may now register at http://tandy.kindermusik.net for the Spring semester!! Babies newborn to 1.5 will be in Village. Children 1.5 to 3 will be in Our Time. Children 3 and 4 will be in Imagine That! And Family Time is all ages 0-99!!! Check it out!

Flute Fun!

2006-12-01T14:34:00.000-05:00

I sometimes play my flute for the children. I sit on the floor right at their level and play something from their cirriculum for them. After I play a song, I go around the singing circle to each child. I blow in the mouthpiece to produce a sound and they are free to explore (sitting on their adult's lap, of course)the keys to produce variations in sound. We had been practicing blowing for a few weeks as a precursor to playing a woodwind instrument (they begin that when they are 5, 6, or 7). Well, one particular evening, one curious youngster in my Our Time class grabbed the opposite end and proceeded to blow in THAT hole!!! She wanted to blow too!! A lesson well learned!

Like Parent, Like Child...

2006-11-04T12:33:00.000-05:00

A friend was talking to me about his/her child and some areas in which she/he would like for him/her to improve. The whole thing in my opinion came down to this: The best thing you can do to love your child is to love yourself first. I'm not talking about the kind of self-love that fosters selfishness but a true self love that is necessary in order to love another human bean (child or adult). There are many wonderful ways to learn about and practice this but I will not write about them here.

In your child, you will also see the areas of your own life that are healthy or that need healing or improvement. Children really are like their parents. So, when you see something your child needs to improve on, practice it yourself. Is he not social? Be more social yourself and make sure your child sees this. Make more playdates where the focus is you talking to your friend not playing with the children. Pick up the phone just for socializing and talk where your child can hear. Is your child hyperactive? In what areas of your own life do you find it hard to focus? Are you filled with anxiety over anything? Do you have self-calming rituals for the mind and spirit? How about involving your child? Children pick up on the energy in the people around them (especially in caregivers) because they are closer to their instinctive natures than we are in general.

This is indeed the harder way of childrearing because most of us are more likely to love others first rather than ourselves. I know this is true for me. In my teaching (and also in my many years of caring for children), I really have seen and do see a direct correlation between how I feel and how the children respond. If I have not done enough to nurture myself, the children can sense this and are not as enthusiastic or are downright uninterested. It is great for me to see so clearly when I am not loving myself enough; when I am working too much; when I am not putting loving myself high on the list of daily priorities. I have to refocus, pray, play or whatever I need to do to center myself, nurture myself, love myself, and then the children respond by being their beautiful selves in response! What wonderful gifts I have in my work!!!

Having a Ball

2006-10-19T21:23:00.000-04:00

Tonight in my Our Time class there was (as every week) a girl of 22 months old. She is highly energetic with an enthusiasm that is so marvelous one cannot help but smile! From the 5 weeks that I have had her in class, I suspect she is also highly creative and has parents who encourage creative thinking! We had an activity with gertie balls (sticky, squishy balls that are very "catchable"). At the end of the activity, I got out the ball bag and began to sing "Balls away, balls away, time to put the balls away." As always, the children rushed to me wanting to clean up and put their ball in the bag! Well, this creative little one put her head into the bag and tried to crawl inside! Maybe she was pretending to BE a ball!!!!

Messy Makes Perfect!

2006-10-13T20:03:00.000-04:00

In a book that I recently read called "Beyond Discipline: From Compliance to Community" by Alfie Kohn, he quotes Eric Shaps when talking about classrooms that run very smoothly: "Deeper learning would look somewhat 'messier' than what I am seeing!" In our Imagine That class tonight(3 and 4 year olds), I sensed some deep development of creativity and spontaneous learning with our rain theme! It looked messy! And I was thrilled! Imagine That!

"Tap your sticks, tap your sticks, tap your sticks!"

2006-10-09T19:39:00.000-04:00

Naturally, parents often tell their children what to do in Kindermusik class. I know that it is hard to believe but I have seen it over and over that the best way to encourage your child to participate is to do it yourself! Parental example is more powerful than telling children what to do in Kindermusik or anywhere else. When parents are disinterested, their children wander and follow suit. When parents don't want to participate and choose not to, their children usually do the same. The kids who have the most fun and learn the most in Kindermusik are those who have very active parents who model the behavior for each activity without telling the child what to do. Now, your child may choose to do something different, using hisor her own creativity, but by your participation you are saying to your child: "This is fun. This is important. It is worth the effort". Honestly, Kindermusik Village and Our Time are not good matches for parents who just want to sit back in class and watch their children interact with me. It rarely works out well when this is the case because I am not the center of attraction at Kindermusik: your child is!!! We all come to Kindermusik for the children! Besides, it is really fun for adults especially when you just let go of your inhibitions, play, and let out your own inner child!! So, let's change the old saying to: "Do as I do, not as I say!"

Nap TIme!

2006-10-06T15:33:00.000-04:00

One mom who brings both her 7 month old and her 3 year old to the same class said with exhuberance "This is the ooonly way that I get a nap!" They are worn out after class and ready for rest! Nap time! For everyone!

Process Not Performance

2006-10-05T21:16:00.000-04:00

Tonight's class taught me a good lesson! I was so excited when the Village mom's did the ensemble so well that I told them that they are the best class! I said "Good!" AND THEN I realized that it made a few feel uncomfortable (that I could see). It's the process we are concerned with for children AS WELL AS PARENTS not the performance!!! Our goal is community music making for the experience of it not necessarily for the result (however great it may be). So, I am sorry for shifting the focus of tonight's ensemble activity but I don't want the mom's to worry: I am not expecting performance next time;just bonding for the fun of it!

The Gift That Stuck Around

2006-10-04T15:24:00.000-04:00

At the end of each class last semester, I gave a sticker to each child on their hand while I sang their personal "Goodbye" (this semster I have graduated to stamps). Well, a boy of 2 years whom I have known for a few semesters, came into my classroom for Our Time this morning with a big grin. His mom asked him to show me what he had for me. He gave me a sticker on my hand! His mom said he wanted to give me a dinosaur (imagine such a small one wanting to give me his favorite) but they did not have one. So, he gave me a very shiny blue lizard! I still have it on my hand as I did during the whole class. He paid special attention to my hand the whole hour and kept smiling when he saw that his gift to me was still there! And my heart smiles to have been the receipient of such generosity from a small friend!

Rum--ble Zoom Zoom!

2006-09-28T21:12:00.000-04:00

Rum--ble Zoom Zoom! Rum--ble Zoom Zoom! So the chant went tonight in my Village class for newborn to 1.5 year olds. It is the sound of a rocket ship, of course. On the Rum--ble mom's held babies tight and shook them a little like a tight hug with movement. On the Zoom Zoom! mom's swayed baby to the right and then the left. One little guy would laugh and giggle with delight on every Rum--ble and Zoom Zoom! So, people ask: "What do you do with babies?" We Rum--ble and Zoom Zoom! and listen and watch with delight as they have a wonderful time!!! P.S.~~Parents have fun too!

Birthday Blessings

2006-09-26T18:14:00.000-04:00

In my Young Child class (for 5 to 7 year olds)we had some very thoughtful and loving girls give Mommy a beautiful gift! Toward the end of class these sisters (ages 5 and 7) told me that it was their Mom's birthday! I suggested that we all sing to her when the parents came into the room to be notified of the weeks music assignment. The girls then explained that they, in their family, sung a very special part after the traditional "Happy Birthday to You". Since we had no time to all learn it, I suggested that the sisters sing a duet at that part. Well, we all sang and then these sisters (who are very musically gifted) sang the most precious, thoughtful, and heartfelt "Gods Blessings to You". All us ladies in the room had tears in our eyes we were so touched. This mom, who was unsure of paying so much (because this class is a formal music lesson, it costs more) exclaimed a heartfelt: "Every penny is already worth it because of what I experienced today!" You see, this was the first class of the semester!!!!! Happy Birthday!

I Made a Mistake

2006-09-23T12:36:00.000-04:00

I forgot the hand stamp last night! I ususally stamp the children's hands as I sing goodbye to them but last night I forgot it at home! Now, Alfie Kohn in his book "Unconditional Parenting" suggests that we be quick to admit our errors to children and apologize. He even suggests that parents find something to apologize about to their children once a week. This sets a powerful example for children to follow when they feel sorry and want to make ammends. It also reminds them of the fact that adults are fallible. We need not feel inadequate if we make mistakes, we just feel human. And that is how they should feel when they make a humanly mistake. So, I forgot and apologized. My 3 and 4 year olds understood even though they were very disappointed. So, when they look at their clean hand, I hope they remember this mistake and how I apologized to them!

No Time Out? Imagine That!

2006-09-23T12:04:00.000-04:00

I have a great Imagine That! class this semester for 3 and 4 year olds! They are full of enthusiasm and energy and give me a good work out! I have been trying to apply some of Alfie Kohn's principles in all of my classes but especially this one because it is without the parent. I have to tell you that not having time out or any type of rewards (except for the joy of participation) it is very difficult. I am really making a commitment not to go backward in my new standards so I am ordering a few more of his books on classroom management to help. "Punnished by Rewards" and "From Compliance to Community". I thought that I would share my struggle with you as you may struggle with the same thing! Ok. These lovely preschoolers: they don't always do what I want. They don't always follow the structure of the class. But I am convinced that each one is learning music while having fun, forming community by making friends, and feels unconditionally accepted. No longer do I see faces drop when I explain that I have a time out area (because I no longer have one). It may take a little longer for the class to run more smoothly (at least by my standards) but I am sure that it is already better than before! Imagine That!

Transformations

2006-09-22T07:58:00.000-04:00

In my Our Time class last night, it was rewarding to see the transformation of the group as a whole from the beginning to the end! It was the first class of the semester so many of the children and parents had never been before. In the very beginning of the class, one little one wanted to go home, one was crying, parents were forcing, the energy of the group was chaotic and tense. It didn't take long, however, for that to begin to change. The children realized that Kindermusik is fun and a cool place to be and began to smile and participate. Parents let loose a little and the group started to become more joyful. By the end, the parents were singing (which is very unusual for the first class) and children didn't want to go home!!! "We're coming back next week" became the phrase of the hour!

Warm Thoughts

2006-09-19T14:27:00.000-04:00

This fall semester the Our Time curriculum is called "Milk and Cookies". It is not only about comfort foods but about all the comforts of home: family, friends, rocking chairs, and even tools in the garage! Besides the fact that I am trying to eat all organic and healthy foods and I get a craving for some sweets when I study my lessons, these topics are wonderfully warm. As we approach this cold season, lets remember to curl up with our loved ones and perhaps have some milk and cookies!

Sharing

2006-09-14T19:47:00.000-04:00

Another idea that made an impression on me in Alfie Kohn's book "Unconditional Parenting" is how to handle sharing. He suggests that parents simply say something like this "I think that Johnny feels a little sad because he wants also to play with that toy. I'll bet he would really be happy to be able to play with it a little while." Then comes the hard part : leave it completely up to the child what to do with that information. Most children over 3years who are being raised this way want to make a contribution to the happiness of others. Under the age of three, I doubt that they would be moved by this because they wouldn't be able to understand what the other child was experiencing. But we can always make them aware. If they decide not to share it, maybe they are not done playing with it and need their own turn a little longer. They have to be able to meet their own needs as well. Maybe they are simply not ready for this skill of thinking outside the lines of their own ego (totally healthy and normal)! When given the benefit of the doubt, most children will exhibit prosocial behavior on their own. They like to see others smile too!

Battle of the Wills

2006-09-09T16:55:00.000-04:00

I have been thinking about this radical acceptance of your children that Alfie talks about in his book "Unconditional Parenting". Not using a system of punishment and reward, he advocates a type of parenting that is child-specific, compassionate, and explanatory. This is a very difficult way of relating to children for most people in modern society. In my Developmental Psychology studies, I was amazed to follow the history of children in our society: how they have been viewed and treated until the present time. It really made me realize that we, as a society, are not really as progressive as we think we are. We can always learn to be more humane, loving, and respecting toward the most helpless members of our society. WE truly have a long way to go.

A type of parenting that assumes that the child is a social creature who wants to fit into his family and please his parents while being true to himself and his development, takes the fight out of the parent-child relationship. No longer would parents battle with the will of their child, but would consider that maybe a lot of things are ok that the child requests and why go to war over it! Once in a while, why not dessert before dinner. Only say "No" when what your child is asking is truly harmful or impossible. Why not leave them free? Why do we have so many points to prove with children:

We are in control.
We know everything.
We are never wrong.
You must obey all adults.

Really, WHY?? Let's stop and ask ourselves "Why?"! Are these things true? Of course not.

Alfie suggests that parents (and I say all adults in contact with children) should allow their children to see them as human. And I suggest that first, we need to accept OURSELVES as human beings with all of our splendorous flaws!

Your Children Are Not Your Children

2006-08-27T09:30:00.000-04:00

This book was excellent! Many ideas struck me as very true. Every child needs to know that they are loved for who they are NOT what they do. Anyone who has contact with children has the best of intentions to unconditionally love the child. What Alfie suggests is to look at it from the child's point of view. Do they get positive attention when they "perform"? He suggests that positive attention (rewards) can be just as damaging as negative attention (punnishments). I know it really sounds odd (and I am really sticking my neck out here) but if a child is rewarded for saying her ABC's, what does that child think if they cannot remember them from time to time? Or what if another child cannot say them yet? Will that child judge the other for not performing "acceptably" or think that they are better than their friend? Do children only feel accepted when they live up to another's standards, or are they accepted for the true people that they are with all of their own desires, thoughts, feelings, abilities, and interests. I once heard a children's song that said "Your children are not your children...they are the sons and daughters of life". Wow! They are truly their own people and need to be treated and respected as such while being gently and thoughtfully guided by the people they trust the most. I welcome your thoughts: as always!

Unconditional Parenting

2006-07-15T10:49:00.000-04:00

Happy Summer! During my wonderful time off from teaching classes, I am going to read "Unconditional Parenting" by Alfie Kohn. I have heard and used many ideas presented in this book in my classroom and wish to really transform my classroom this fall into a place of thoroughly unconditional acceptance for my students! It would be great if you would like to read it along with me and we could share the experience together and perhaps post comments here as well. You may purchase it from http://www.amazon.com at a nice price! I hope to hear from you about it here, on the telephone, through email, or in class this fall! I will be posting comments about it here as well. Have a great summer!

Fall Schedule!

2006-06-29T20:10:00.000-04:00

By popular request, I have finished my fall schedule early! You may find it on my website. The link to my website is under "View my complete profile" here at this blog. Feel free to contact me with questions!

Tiredness & Connectedness

2006-06-22T20:28:00.000-04:00

Whew! Before class tonight I was doing my Spring cleaning (although it is summer) and I was so tired that I realized that I should have rested a bit today. Dragging myself to class, I set up the room and wondered how I would be really connecting with the children tonight being so tired. Well, as class began, they were so energized and exhuberant, I perked right up! They connected with each other in a very unusual way. They were so beautiful smiling to each other, touching each other, and really connecting on more than a superficial level that I was really touched just observing them. I noticed that they were so gentle with each other that the parents didn't interrupt to correct their behavior but were socializing among themselves! I felt a part of something very special this evening. Like I was simply providing the environment for this deep connectedness among my families! How beautiful for those with the eyes to see and the heart to feel!

Borrowing A Child

2006-06-21T10:54:00.000-04:00

I had the most fabulous older couple come to my Sign and Sing class with a beautiful 18 month old girl! I, of course, thought they were her grandparents as many grandparents bring their grandchildren to Kindermusik. I said to the little girl "You brought Grandma and Grandpa with you!" With bright smiles and cheery voices they exclaimed "We are her neighbors!" They explained that they didn't have any grandchildren and being eager to share in a child's life, they borrowed their little neighbor to come to Kindermusik! How wonderfrul. It reminded me that I should be more open about wanting to borrow children for fun events since I have none of my own (certainly not by choice)! They participated very eagerly signing and singing and dancing!!!

Singing In the Rain!

2006-05-18T20:52:00.000-04:00

Our little Tarzan in class tonight reminded me of an important part of my childhood. This little 3 year old is a boy after my own heart: his primal sounds reminded me of my childhood fascination with the jungle and how I used to play in the rain! That's right, without thunder and lightening, I was allowed to play until my heart was content in the rain! I splashed around barefoot, danced, sang, and twirled about in the splendid wetness! I know with all of this rain lately, my students haven't been able to expend the energy they need to by playing outdoors. Why not let them play in the rain? This is a great sensory experience and is a wonderful science lesson on the properties of different kinds of weather!! Take an umbrella if you must, but I challenge you to recapture the spirit of your child within and allow yourself to have a fabulous time singing in the rain!

P.S. I guess it would help if you have a hot bath after. And a hot tub would be even better! Have fun!

The Human Race as a Family(this post is not too idealistic)!

2006-04-26T14:47:00.000-04:00

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!

Musical Games

2006-04-17T15:38:00.000-04:00

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?

Make yourself at home

2006-04-02T17:48:00.000-04:00

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!!!

Read My Reviews

2006-03-29T21:28:00.000-05:00

If you would like to see what some parents of my students think of my class, visit www.kindermusik.com and click "Find a Class" enter 48124 or your Dearborn zip code to read my reviews. Have fun browsing this site!

Terrible Two's???

2006-03-26T18:34:00.000-05:00

Some of my Our Time students are reminding me of a very important reality for children ages 1.5-3 years old: emotional development. The term "terrible two's" comes from the fact that the toddler is learning to regulate her emotions which are often like a storm brewing inside. Although I don't think that the term is justified (I don't think that any stage of human development should be coined as "terrible"), many parents are aware of the reality and are at their wits end (understandably)! Research shows that small conflicts arise for the toddler once every three minutes and larger ones about three times per hour. Whew! Can you imagine what this must be like for them? They often do not have the language skills to communicate their needs which often results in crying or even temper tantrums. My heart is filled with compassion for them. Even though I do not have children of my own, I was a professional nanny for years and have helped many a two year old in this area. Long before I began teaching Kindermusik, I discovered that age appropriate music helps the child to understand and identify his emotions (as it does for adults as well) in a way that mere words cannot. Have you ever felt this sort of release after hearing a piece that seems to express something of your deep caverns within? Have you adopted the words to a favorite song almost as your own because it expresses your interior better than you can? Toddlers need to learn to resolve these conflicts and sort out their emotions and music is a powerful tool in this development! They rely on parents and important caregivers to help them discover and manage this part of themselves which is so abundant, alive, and wonderful! This is why Kindermusik Our Time strives to encourage a partnership between parent and toddler both in class and in the At Home Materials to help the child develop a healthy emotional life. I would propose that we replace the expression "terrible two's" with "terrific two's" because isn't it our emotional lives that partly provide an enriching, meaningful, abundant existence for us human beans? Isn't the toddler on a most wonderful journey, with you as their guide, to experience the richness and delight of being human? Come, Rejoice With Me!

Sign Language for Children!

2006-03-25T12:41:00.000-05:00

We began a new Kindermusik program "Sign and Sing" for children ages 6 months to 3 years last evening and it was fantastic!!! It is moments like these that remind me how grateful I am to be one of the children's programs in Dearborn Michigan!! We had such a great time and the students responded enthusiastically! Parents and Grandparents joined in the class as we all signed and sang, made music together, and had a grand time with the bubbles!! We are all going to practice our signs and meet again next week for more splendid jammin'! I witnessed a 1 year old girl's first sign and guess what it was? BUBBLES!!!!!!!!

Diaperless Babies!!!

2006-03-09T14:36:00.001-05:00

One huge benefit of coming to Kindermusik class is bonding and sharing with other mom's. One mom of a 5 month old baby girl was sharing today her success with infant potty training. I have heard of this before and it made great sense. I was happy that she was sharing and the other moms were very interested in hearing. You may learn more at www.natural-wisdom.com/index.htm Moms share all kinds of things with each other in the Village class. Socialization is important for everyone, especially new moms!

Comfort Levels With Strangers

2006-03-08T14:05:00.000-05:00

Children, when they come into my classes, have all different levels of comfort when it comes to being with strangers. Either they are cautious, or perhaps afraid or maybe Highly Sensitive (see my book favorites). One little girl who is almost 2 years old is a good example. She felt best on Mommy's lap and not much eye contact or otherwise with me. I respected her need and in every class, (we are now in week 8) I (because I am Highly Sensitive)have been able to sense and act according to her comfort level with active participation particularly with me. See, I understand that part of the reason parents love Kindermusik for their children, is because they would like them to have a variety of social experiences with people of all ages! So, I make it one of my goals to encourage interaction. She has responded positivlely to me yet very cautiously (my guess is that she IS Highly Sensitive). She has a wonderful mom who is very patient and who trusts that my lack of interaction with her daughter is planned and with the best interest of her little girl in mind! Now today, during musical ball time~~~~she responded to my suggestion that we play catch~~~! With big, yet quiet smiles, we played together and really connected. It meant a lot to her, but probably even more to me!!

Barefoot is Best!

2006-03-03T18:16:00.000-05:00

I just love these soft foot covers that I have been seeing the pre-walkers and walkers wearing! It is so consistant with the Kindermusik philosophy (and my own) that barefoot is best! Especially during Kindermusik classes, it is great to sport no socks or shoes because children learn through their senses especially by the touch and feeling on the bottom of their feet! The more senses that are involved in learning, the greater the capacity to absorb the experience (for everyone)! Freedom of movement is important always but especially during class where creative movement emerges and takes root. I encourage parents too, to enjoy class without shoes when comfortable! Don't you just love a walk without shoes on the ocean beach? Hot sand between your toes...Doesn't it ad another dimension to the beach experience that cannot be replicated? Bare feet are important for Baby's sensory development! So, I just LOVE these covers!! But, from one who grew up in moccasins, I am a little biased!

Self Control for Preschoolers

2006-03-02T13:59:00.000-05:00

In my Imagine That! class one little girl is learning self control in order to respect others and she is truly inspiring! A 4 year old girl in my class has had this habit of talking while I or others are talking or singing. She started doing this once she got comfortable in the class atmosphere (after about 3 classes). I explained to the class at large that when Miss Tandy or a student is talking, we must learn to be good listeners because what we have to say is important. I further explained that we must respect one another and not interrupt. In the case of my singing, I explained, they had 2 choices: 1)sing with me or 2) be a good listener but "It is very difficult for Miss Tandy to sing when you are talking". I said this first about 4 weeks ago (we meet once weekly) and every week thereafter because it was very necessary for her to be reminded! She had a very difficult time with this form of self control until this week! Something happened and she has been the most respectful, best listener and singer in the whole class! As my classes are PROCESS not PERFORMANCE oriented, I didn't tell her that she is the BEST listener, but I told her: "You were very respectful today of Miss Tandy and the other students and I am soooooo PROUD of you!!" And I certainly AM!!

Based on Maslow's Hierarchy of HUMAN (all humans at all stages of development) Needs

2006-02-25T16:52:00.000-05:00

I am reading about this lately and though I would share it with you!

1. Survival
2. Safety
3. Touching, skin contact
4. Attention
5. Mirroring and Echoing
6. Guidance
7. Listening
8. Being Real
9. Participating
10. Acceptance (of the REAL YOU)
11. Opportunity to grieve losses and to grow
12. Support
13. Loyalty and Trust
14. Accomplishment
15. Altering one's state of consciousness, transcending the ordinary
16. Sexuality
17. Enjoyment or Fun!!!
18. Freedom
19. Nurturing
20. Unconditional Love (including spirituality)

Food for thought...

4 to 12 hugs a day

2006-02-23T19:41:00.000-05:00

Tonight I was reminded of a very important reality for children AND adults: HUGS! I got quite a few hugs at my Our Time class this evening and I loved every minute of it!! Most of them were from a little girl of 2 years and 4 months. She ran in and gave me some, gave me some during listening time, and then again another time in class. Virginia Satir has suggested that we need from 4 to 12 hugs a day as a part of our health maintenance. Four hugs are for survival and twelve are for optimal health! Well, I am trying to be more health conscious so when my husband gets home I'll let him know that I need about 9 more!!

Children and Adults are Special

2006-02-22T08:17:00.000-05:00

I was really afraid to start my own business. As this community welcomed me with open arms, I began to feel more comfortable. Now, I get candy at the bank! That just happened to me yesterday and it was wonderful. The teller gave me a big smile and said "That's for you!!" I smiled and drove away feeling so accepted. Now I realize why these places do special things for children. It is important that they feel accepted and special every day! Let's help children every day to feel confident in whatever we do. A smile, a loving word, or whatever way you can fit into your day. As a community, let's make sure that all children feel special!!! And adults too!!!

Doggie Demands

2006-02-18T23:41:00.000-05:00

We are pondering getting a dog. We've been thinking about it for a while. It would force us to walk, give us some additional joy etc... Today a family member said "It is a big responsibility. If you want to go out of town, someone needs to watch it. It has needs and demands that you must fulfill. It is a commitment." I, without thinking blurted out "Isn't that the point?" Well, I have been pondering why I said that. Well, you parents would know better than me: aren't the biggest joys in life those that have "strings attached". Don't we all long for responsibility and commitment? Isn't part of the joy of parenthood the very fact that it makes you grow as a person? Isn't there something that we instinctively long for when fulfilling the needs of a dependent person like a child (or in this case, an animal)? Don't children long for this as well when taking care of a pet or a younger sibling? A three and a half year old boy in my Family Time class was so excited and proud to show me how he was nurturing his "baby" (a stuffed animal) because he had swaddled it in a scarf during learned relaxation time. This is how this little one relaxed...by pretending to care for another person. Commitment...where along the line did this become something undesirable? As a parent, isn't your commitment to your family directly related to the joy you experience as a parent, husband, or wife? So, I say "yes" to more commitment because I think it means more joy...So, if anyone knows where we can get a cockapoo locally, I'd appreciate a lead (all white would be nice)! Have a blessed day!!

Family Time is Jammin' Time

2006-02-17T21:33:00.000-05:00

We kicked off Kindermusik's newest program this morning: Family Time! Me and 10 of my little friends were jammin' with all kinds of instruments. 10 am comes early but we were kickin' it!! I was very impressed with the storytime! This lovely little group participated so enthusiastically in story time! Could it have been the subject? Bouncing On The Bed? Remember those days where your bed might as well have been a trampoline? Such simple things we discovered to brighten our days...let's remember and try to go there once again.

It's not all fun and games!!

2006-02-16T20:10:00.000-05:00

"What?" you may be thinking! That's right...and tonight my class was a perfect example. Of course we all had fun. Of course we all played muscial games. But something else very important was also at hand: school readiness. Once in a great while, class is chaotic. That's right, they don't want to share..they want it right now...they shriek...loudly...parents discipline...Miss Tandy smiles because she knows something very important. These 1.5 to 3 year olds learn school readiness and proper socialization in Kindermusik while having a musically grand time!! It's all in how you look at it. Was this class chaotic or a wonderful environment for learning very important developmental skills? Hey, don't get me wrong, this is not the usual, but every so often, it happens...and it is truly joyous!! It's all in how you look at it!!!!!!!!!!

Boomin' Babies!!!

2006-02-16T13:09:00.000-05:00

In all of my classes, we have a listening activity to help develop this learned skill for music listening, attention span, and overall development. Today in my Village class (these particular little ones range from 3 to 14 months old), we had a listening activity with a Buffalo Drum. I assembled babies and moms around the drum as I began to play it in the perscribed fashion. All of these 6 little ones hushed their voices and began to stare very dramatically at the drum to listen. This lasted well beyond any other listening activity I've done before as they were enraptured by the booming sound alternating rhythmaticly with scratching. As I softly began to sing the song after a few minutes while still playing the drum, they all , with hushed voices, stared at me as well. I was much moved, and upon reflecting upon it, it felt like a sacred moment between all of our souls! You see, very often, the Kindermusik classroom IS a sacred space that we ritually return to week by week for fun, learning, friendship, and connectedness...Have you had moments of connectedness like this with your children?

Simplicity

2006-02-15T13:42:00.000-05:00

Sometimes, this is enough to fill my day with simple joy: Today during my Our Time class, a 2 year old girl was stuck to my side, eyes filled with wonder at everything I sang or did! I enjoyed her presence so much! Apparently, she enjoyed mine as well because she gave me the biggest hug after the goodbye song (I mean bigger than usual)! It reminds me to cherish every moment that I have with another person whether it be husband, mother, student or friend! Never let a moment pass you by! Rejoice all the way!!!!

Surpised By Childlike Charity

2006-02-14T15:34:00.000-05:00

I was very inspired today by a little 4 year old boy in my Imagine That! class today. I have some students with speech impetiments. The school sends them for my class because singing is really good to help them develop their speech and they are also integrated with their peers in a classroom setting. One 5 year old girl volunteered (as I had asked for a few) to sing "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" all by herself. I smiled, took a deep breath and waited. I really thought that this little boy would either laugh or ask her what she had sung because it is extrememly difficult to understand anything she says (or in this case, sings). You see, he is very bright, quick, and overly confident so I was afraid that he wouldn't understand her and ask to know why she sang like that. Then, so I feared, she would be embarassed and I'd have to think of a quick, informative, gentle answer to explain. So, she sang and this little boy, with a very bright look in his eye, said "All right ______!" Then he patted her on the back with a huge smile! I was much relieved but also much inspired by the insight of this little boy! Children surprise me in so many different ways. With their love, laughter, and in this case, charity!!

She has a favorite!!!

2006-02-13T12:03:00.000-05:00

In my classes during instrument exploration, I suggest different ways to play the instrument based on what I see the children doing and what I think they are able to learn. Today, in my Our Time class, an 18 month old girl found her favorite way to play the rhythm sticks! Usually, she is more content to watch the other children while staying close by Mommy's side. When I put the bin of sticks in the center of the circle today, she jumped up, grabbed two of them, and began to energetically tap them on her shoes! We all tapped them on our shoes like her. After that, she did not want to move on to do any other move with the sticks. She energetically tapped her shoes and tapped her shoes and tapped her shoes...It is so fun to watch them grow and learn during class! This little one is finding her own style!!!

My Blog

2006-02-12T19:33:00.000-05:00

Hi friends! Welcome! During my day as a Kindermusik educator, I am blessed to experience many moments of the magic of the life of a child's heart! So many of these moments are so inspiring for those who love children that I have been looking for a way to share them with interested lovers of life! Then I found out about blogs! Perfect! I hope to write here things that may be of interest to you as a creative parent whether inspiring or informative (I read a lot too)! I also invite you to share here some of your insights about what I have written and would love for you to share some of your own inspiring moments! Come, Rejoice with me!!!!

Kindermusik By Tandy

New Blog

Groovy dance moves

Listening

Keeping the Singing Circle

Laughter

Sharing

Getting up after a fall

Cooperation

Parent Reviews

Fall Classes

Summer Child of the Earth

Summer Inspiration

Summer Sessions

Sandcastle

Doin' Our Own Thing!!

Great Grandma Came: Alone!!!

If you stay long enough...

Miracle: Definition

Art Gallery

An Insiders Perspective

Scaffolding

Child Safety: Gates and Bells

The Schedule is In!!

Flute Fun!

Like Parent, Like Child...

~~Having a Ball~~

Messy Makes Perfect!

"Tap your sticks, tap your sticks, tap your sticks!"

Nap TIme!

Process Not Performance

The Gift That Stuck Around

Rum--ble Zoom Zoom!

Birthday Blessings

I Made a Mistake

No Time Out? Imagine That!

Transformations

Warm Thoughts

Sharing

Battle of the Wills

Your Children Are Not Your Children

Unconditional Parenting

Fall Schedule!

Tiredness & Connectedness

Borrowing A Child

Singing In the Rain!

The Human Race as a Family(this post is not too idealistic)!

Musical Games

Make yourself at home

Read My Reviews

Terrible Two's???

Sign Language for Children!

Diaperless Babies!!!

Comfort Levels With Strangers

Barefoot is Best!

Self Control for Preschoolers

Based on Maslow's Hierarchy of HUMAN (all humans at all stages of development) Needs

4 to 12 hugs a day

Children and Adults are Special

Doggie Demands

Family Time is Jammin' Time

It's not all fun and games!!

Boomin' Babies!!!

Simplicity

Surpised By Childlike Charity

She has a favorite!!!

My Blog

Having a Ball