Music makes me happy! I love to hum and sing even though I don't have a very good voice. I love to listen to all types of music. I always have the radio on in my car and I often listen to music at home. What I listen to often depends on my mood. Upbeat to clean the house and quiet to relax. Ballads to sing along with in the car and slow and quiet when I'm feeling reflective or a bit sad. I'm sure that's what a lot of people do. It helps to set the tone, depending on what's going on. I also like to find songs that have some kind of message or meaning to them. My daughter is a big fan of country music and she often calls me to share a new song that has some type of message in it that she can relate to. One of my favorite songs includes the line, "always be humble and kind, say please and thank you."  I try to remember those words every day - it's a good lesson and a good way to navigate through the challenging and positive parts of life. There are many inspirational songs and lyrics that can be both comforting and meaningful.

Music is quite universal and often brings people and children together. Through common themes and shared interests, children can find a common ground in music, much the same way that they find commonalities through play. Whether it's just listening to music, singing along, learning about concepts or skills, or dancing and being silly; music is a special and fun way to move, relax and come together in a creative and non-threatening way. There aren't many things that are better than seeing a small child belting out a tune that just feels good to sing out loud. Music can be fun, loud and silly, and should encourage both children and adults to be the same. Any time I visit a classroom, I offer to sing. Just a quick song that sometimes leads into "more please" or "again."  I love it and hope that the kids do too. 

A few weeks ago I was enjoying some time on the playground. I like to go out and watch the children play, assess how things are going and have a little fun. On this particular day, I was chatting with some of the preschoolers. The sun was in my eyes so I suggested that we go and sit on one of swings. Off we went, all five of us swinging and chatting. Before long, I mentioned to the kids that "singing" rhymes with "swinging" and then I asked if anyone wanted to sing a song. With great enthusiasm I heard an upbeat version of the ABC song. We all sang that a second time in very loud voices. Baa Baa Black Sheep was next.   After that, I heard a very concise and precise version of Let it Go from the movie, Frozen.  I was quite impressed.  When the singer suggested another rendition of Let it Go, I offered to sing one of my favorite songs, On Top of Pizza (a alternative version of the familiar On Top of Spaghetti).  The kids thought that it was quite silly and before you know it they had joined me in singing it three times. I have to tell you, that this was one of the best days ever. Singing and swinging with three-year-olds is something that everyone should do. Before long it was time for the kids to head in. They were sad; I was sad. But I did have a smile on my face for rest of the afternoon. 

 

Thoughtfully,

Mary Beth