Why do music with young children?

It has long been recognised that music plays an important role in young children's development, singing enhances language skills and instrument playing encourages hand-eye co-ordination.   There is also growing evidence that music can help at a later stage with subjects as diverse as mathematics, foreign languages and scientific problem solving.

At Jo Jingles we aim to give children an exciting and lively introduction to music in a structured, yet fun, environment. 

Here's what some of the experts have to say about the benefits of teaching music to young children:

"Singing songs to your child widens their vocabulary and improves listening skills, both of which make learning to read easier". Professor John Sloboda, Keele University.

"A child is more confident, usually speaks early and gains an early grasp of the rules of communication if started early in clapping games, group activities and musical games" Dr Miriam Stoppard, Child Psychologist

"Children who learn to sing and play together are more likely to lead successful lives than those who receive a more disciplined education" Dr Kathy Silva, Educational Psychologist, Oxford University

"Music helps children to learn maths. When children learn rhythm, they are learning ratios, fractions and proportions" Professor Gordon Shaw, University of California, Irvine

What will my child get out of the classes?

Each class incorporates a carefully structured routine appropriate to the ages of the children, which is designed to maximise their enjoyment and learning.  Over time, pre-school children not only learn new songs but also new skills such as returning instruments, sitting still and moving around at designated times.  Such skills do not come naturally to young children and are learnt over time. On average, it takes three weeks for children to become familiar with the routine and "settle down".

Classes are predominantly split into babies (6 months - walking), 1-2 years, 2-4 years and (where we have sufficient demand) 2½-5 years.  Please note that in venues where age groups are combined, the key elements of both programmes are included.

What if I want to sign up more than one child, but they fall into different age groups?

You may find it easier to bring all your children to one class rather than to two different classes.   Please give us a call and we will be able to advise you of the most suitable class given the ages of the children. 

What do I need to bring?

Simply bring a drink for your child and ensure he or she is dressed comfortably.  We will provide all the instruments and props.

How do I join?

If you would like to reserve a place on a Jo Jingles session, please check whether there is availability on the class you would like to attend by calling 01225 422638, then download and complete the registration form and return with a cheque for the first term or half term.  Please do not send payment unless a place on the class has been confirmed and please do make sure that you book in advance as class sizes are limited to around 15 children. 

Alternatively, if you would prefer to sample a lesson first, please let us know the day on which you would like to attend.  At the end of the lesson you can decide whether you would like to pay just for that lesson only or sign up for the remainder of the term.