Toddlers learn through music

We are aware of the importance of music in kids, below is an interesting article:

Toddlers learn through music
Published Wednesday, February 27, 2008by Lesley Martin

Kennedy Library started its first Reading Music Reading Words class Wednesday.

The library gave toddlers tambourines, drumsticks and bells to go along with story time. They encourage creative chaos during story time to help them develop reading skills.
Studies have shown incorporating music, rhythms and instruments with reading help children develop language skills.

“The whole patterns, counting, and pacing through music help children to pace through reading,” Jody DelaGardelle, Assistant Librarian said. “I think a lot of times with a story, a child just listens, but when they have to pay attention, when they make noise, or when they have to participate they are learning something.”

The class consisted of 14 children ranging from ages three to four, all having fun but learning at the same time.

The parents who bring their children to Reading Music Reading Words have seen an improvement in educational skills and will continue to bring their children each week.

“Music is a great teacher. Children pick up music so young,” Anne Gaydos, a parent whose two sons attend the class, said. “My babies love listening to music and singing and dancing. I think you accompany that with words and I think that the learning sinks in even more.”

The class was created by a Ball State music professor a couple of years ago, and Dela Gardelle has been in charge of the class for the last six years.

Before moving the class to Kennedy library it was held at Carnegie Library. Reading Music Reading Words is every Wednesday at 10:30 am.

The Learning Center Preschool
Center for Early Childhood Education