Children naturally love music! Whether it is a lively tune or soft and soothing music, children feel it both physically and emotionally.
Being Creative
“You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” ― Maya Angelou
Music is a creative experience which involves expression of feelings. Children need positive ways to release their emotions. They often do not have the words to express themselves. Most children begin to learn about the world by acting on people and objects. They “think with their bodies” well before they think with words. Hence routines such as body movement is not only fun for children but also a good opportunity for them to solve problems.
Group Participation
Music in OMS comprises of routines in class which children will learn and feel comfortable. Singing, playing musical instruments such as drums, rattles, rhythm sticks and bells, can help make routine activities such as gathering children into a circle or group activity, smoother and more enjoyable. This routine allows the children to participate and helps them feel part of the group.
As part of the rituals, there is a hello and goodbye greeting song at OMS. This helps to create a sense of routine among the children.
“OMS has instilled in Bayern a positive and enthusiastic love of sharing, turn-taking habits and attitudes. I hope this wonderful program will inspire more children & families,” shared Angie, mother of Bayern Tan.
In the Mood
Music helps to set a mood. Lively marching tune rouses children for an energetic clean‐up time while quiet, soothing music calms and relaxes children. Music will enhance the creativity and imagination of children. They are also more aware of movement and body positions.
Develop Confidence
After consistent classes with OMS, children will feel confident to express themselves and willing to be open and learn more. They will also have a better coordination and rhythm through dance and movement activities. Activity such as solo-time, boosts a child’s confidence, as the child feels special to be acknowledged.
Develop Growth
Music evokes movement, this will strength the development and growth of children. Music engages the brain while stimulating neural pathways associated with such higher forms of intelligence as empathy, abstract thinking and mathematics. With a routine, appropriate music activities engage the whole child – the desire of the child for language, the urge of the body to move, the attention of the brain to patterns, the lead of the ear in initiating communication, the response of the voice to sounds, as well as the eye-hand coordination associated with playing musical instruments.
Social
Music is a social activity which involves the participation of family and community. With a routine, children are to sing and dance at home and in school.
“Thanks to the professionalism of the teachers and wonderful rapport with kids, my daughter, Sarah, has become more sociable. She has also developed a sense of rhythm and appreciation for music,” smiled Yen, Sarah’s mum.
To conclude, music brings another dimension of beauty into our lives. As children grow in their appreciation of the beauty of music and dance, they acquire a gift that will bring them great pleasure to themselves and the people around them.