Newsletter

March 09

Issue 0109

CLASSES

I hope everyone has been enjoying classes so far! Here are some further suggestions on how you can help your child get the most out of classes. If you have any questions please come and speak to me.

·         Very young children can be easily distracted by other things and may decide to have a wonder at various points in class. Encourage children to come back and join in, if they are wanting you to pursue them, it may be best to ignore them and join in with the activities yourself. If adults look like they are enjoying themselves children often come back to see what’s going on! Where ever possible be positive about the things they do well and remember, whilst children are having a wonder they are listening too!

·         In Tapping Teddies classes there are lots of ways to help children become independent e.g sitting by the box and getting and returning instruments. Children who aren’t quite walking may need to be supported and encouraged to do these activities by adults.

·         Classes are structured so that children get to know what is coming. There are times when we are sitting still (when we sing “Hello” and “Goodbye” and times when we move about (some songs and dances). Rock a bye is an important time for being still. If your child doesn’t like “cuddles” encourage them to maybe lie down or just sit still with you. It is time to be quiet & still.

·         Learning about PULSE (the beat of the music) through playing, watching and listening is one of the musical elements taught unconsciously. You can help your child by gently tapping the pulse somewhere on their body whilst they are playing, this will help them feel the pulse more strongly.

·         Remember your role as an adult is very important. Children copy adults, so if adults are seen to be talking and not listening, children will think they don’t have to listen either. Please also sing along in class, even if you think you can’t! Join in with the singing games and movement, please don’t feel embarrassed, the fact you are joining in too is very important!

Other Points:

·         Please do not to bring toys into class they can often be distracting and can be dangerous if they are left on the floor whilst we are moving about. Small Soft Toys or comfort blankets are fine if they are really needed! Please can I also ask that there is no eating during classes.

·         Please turn off mobile phones before class starts so that distractions can be kept to a minimum.

·         To ensure all children get the best start to music classes everyone will be called into class 5 minutes before class is due to start. This is to ensure children don’t become restless

before we start class. Please can everyone also ensure that when a class finishes they           leave as soon as possible so the next class can be let in, this will help with classes starting           on time. Thank you.

CHARITY

I have to say a big thank you for your support in the ICAN’s chatterbox challenge. Even though the weather was bad some of you still turned out to sing and those that couldn’t make it still raised lots of money.

Altogether you raised a massive £530 and I know there are still some of you collecting!

All the photo’s are on the website if anyone wishes to be removed from the photo’s for any reason please come and see me.

NEW CLASSES

I would like to welcome new teacher KATE who will be running extra classes on Friday mornings. Kate has been training on Fridays to take new Tapping Teddies and Wiggles and Jiggles classes. I know it can be difficult for children when there is a change so thank you to everyone for welcoming Kate. The new classes will start after Easter and will be at 9.30am for Tapping Teddies and 10.30am Wiggles and Jiggles. The classes will either be at Primrose Hall, Horbury or ChristChurch, Ossett. Priority will be given to newcomers and those needing to move up a group for April term.

EXTRA CRIGGLESTONE CLASS

If anyone would like to join a Wiggles & Jiggles class at Crigglestone I am looking to run one at 11.30-12.15 on Tuesdays after Easter. Please can you let me know if you would be interested in this class. Thank you

NEXT TERM

There is a separate sheet with information about next term please make sure you pick one of these up if you would like to continue next term.

EASTER GIFTS

If you are looking for something different to chocolate for Easter hopefully there will be one or two musical items to buy over the next few weeks.

NEW DAYCARE FACILITY

Are you looking for a day care facility in Ossett? Little Stars Day Nursery has recently opened its doors and has availability for children 0 years and up, there are also government assisted places for 3 to 5 year olds. Please call Jayne Manso for more information on 01924263146 or 07876790995.