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.

Most Parents know that music-making is “a good thing”: the combination of self-expression, discipline, fun and working with others in a positive way is a winning combination and 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 is Jo Jingles?

Jo Jingles runs classes for children from the ages of 6 months - 5 years, and having been running for ten years it has become firmly established as the leading Pre-School Music provider. Jo Jingles classes can be found throughout the UK and Ireland, and each week over 20 000 children are having fun and learning with Jo Jingles!

The intention of the classes is to give children a fun introduction to music and singing through the use of various activities, e.g. songs, musical instrument playing, music and movement, sound games and rhythm games.

Classes are age specific and the content of each class is varied accordingly.

Jo Jingles introduces the younger children to a mixture of familiar and new songs, many of which are exclusive to Jo Jingles classes. During each class the children play at least two different instruments from a range including claves, drums, maracas, tambourines and triangles, all of which help to develop hand/eye co-ordination.

As the children progress through the age groups themes are introduced which cover many pre-school topics, e.g. colours, shapes, animals and days of the week. Movement activities become a little more difficult and we practise our listening skills. Important social skills are also developed, as the children learn to interact with their peers, share and take turns within a relaxed and structured environment.

What do our parents think?

Here are just a few comments from existing parents:

'I chose Jo Jingles because of the structure of your sessions - both the parents and the children know what is coming next, the sessions are fast-paced to hold children's attention but not rushed, and the care and attention to detail that obviously goes into planning each session is reflected ten times over in the quality. My daughter loves Jo Jingles, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to any parent of a young child.'
Mrs T, Salisbury.

'I can't believe the confidence my daughter now has after attending your classes - she has gone from being shy and retiring to chattering non-stop both with children her own age and with adults, and she's now always first at the instrument box! Thank you!'
Mrs W, Salisbury.

'Having been attending your classes for the past year, I can really see how Jo Jingles has helped my son in so many ways. He is confident, sociable, and always singing, and is now pestering me for piano lessons!'
Mrs T, Amesbury

'Jo Jingles really gets our week off to a flying start - my son and I both love coming to the class, Becky's energy and enthusiasm are infectious, and it's a great opportunity to get together with other mums afterwards for coffee and a chat. Now we look forward to Mondays!'
Mrs J, Tidworth.

'I think it's important for every child to have the same instrument - so many music groups simply have a variety of instruments and the point of playing is lost. However, at Jo Jingles every child has the same instrument, always of a good quality, so that the children can really focus on what they have and learn to play it effectively, rather than wanting what their neighbour has!'
Mrs S, Amesbury

'The combination of music and movement is great - the structure of your classes is always superbly balanced between the two and enables the children to develop many different physical skills.'
Mrs F, Burbage.

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. Parents/carers please note that we sit on mats on the floor.

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.   Normally we would suggest that you sign up to the older child’s relevant age group however please e-mail me with your children’s ages and I will be able to advise you of the most suitable class. 

How do I join?

Numbers are limited to around 15 children per session, so take a look at our 'Classes' page, decide which class(es) would suit you best, and then either email Becky stating which class(es) you are interested in (it's best to give more than one option in case your first choice class is full) or call her on 01980 626562.