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. Over the course of a term many parents comment that their child’s confidence has grown considerably. 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, 1-2 years and 2-4 years . Please note that in venues where age groups are combined, the key elements of both programmes are included.

I HAVE 2 CHILDREN of different ages. CAN I BRING THEM BOTH AND IF SO WHICH AGE GROUP SHOULD I ATTEND?

It is often more practical to bring both/all of your children to the same class. We would advise that you chose a class aimed at your eldest child’s age. She/he is likely to be more independent and happy to join in more independently. This will give you the opportunity to give more attention to your youngest. If in doubt which class to go for, give us a ring and we will happily discuss the options.

DUE TO MY PERSONAL CIRCUMSTANCES I CAN’T MAKE THE SAME CLASS EACH WEEK. CAN I ATTEND A DIFFERENT CLASS IF I NEED TO?

There is a degree of flexibility built into the classes, which would allow you to swap sessions if necessary. Every effort will be made to accommodate you.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

Simply bring a drink for your child as singing can be thirsty work and ensure both you and your child are dressed comfortably as we have movement sections within our programs.

WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP MY CHILD GET THE MOST OUT OF CLASSES?

• Firstly please keep chatting with other parents to a minimum during the class. It's really hard to get your child's attention if I haven't got yours. Why not meet up with friends after to have a coffee!!

• Safety is paramount in all our classes. We ask that children remain seated with the instruments (and some of our props). We do understand that children of this age can get restless and may want to take a wander. If your child gets up for a little wander (or a dance!) simply take the instruments before they get up and carry on playing. Your child will soon return when they realise what they are missing out on!
• We ask parents to join in as much as possible and encourage your little ones to do the same. The more enthusiastic you are, the more your child will enjoy the sessions. Remember, you only have to be lively for 45 minutes!!!
• Very importantly give your child lots of praise. This goes a long way and they love impressing you!

Reinforce what is learnt in classes by carrying on the musical fun at home! Jo Jingles has a fantastic selection of CD’s available for you to buy so that you can sing all the songs at home too.

DO I HAVE TO JOIN AT THE START OF A TERM?

You can join a class at any point in the term (subject to spaces) and you will of course only pay for the remaining number of classes in the term.

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 0151 606 8177 or e-mailing dianejojingles@hotmail.co.uk.

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.