Music and Movement

Four-year-olds sing spontaneously throughout the day — when they're in the tub, playing with toys, walking in the park. At this age, children begin to recognize different patterns in the music — fast and slow tempos, different kinds of rhythm, high and low pitch. They listen to and explore various kinds of music, instruments and natural sounds. And they develop the ability to sing expressively. Four-year-olds respond to various types of music and rhythm activities through movement, becoming aware of where their body is in space as they move with more control. They use movement to interpret or imitate feelings, animals or concepts like plants growing or a rainstorm. Preschoolers can move their bodies creatively (dance, march, hop, jump, sway, clap, snap, stomp, twist, turn, etc.) and use creative movement props such as crepe paper streamers, hoops and scarves to create special movements and dances.

Provide your child with lots of opportunities to listen and respond to different styles of music. Sing and dance together at every opportunity and create an informal house band of homemade instruments!