What's expected of my child in class?
We let the children be children and allow them to choose their way to participate. We want them to feel safe and comfortable, which means children are not expected to sit in the circle or to participate exactly how the grownups are. We know that children learn differently from adults. They learn through instinctively and immersion, through observation and repetition, interactions with adults and older children, and through imitation, play, and, especially, movement.
Children engage based on their learning style and temperament, as well as their age and developmental level. Some might join in right away. Many will want to watch and absorb, particularly in the first few weeks of class. Some might crawl or move peripherally around the outside of the circle; others are stimulated by the music and respond actively, jumping, spinning or dancing. All are perfectly natural responses to the new, musically rich environment. As long as they are moving safely, they are free to move around the room, with the exception of running. We quickly redirect running to keep everyone in the space safe. Throughout the semester, you'll begin to tune in to how your child learns best so you can support their music development during class and at home. Feel free to ask if you have questions!
As a parent, what is my role in class?
Sing, dance, model and have fun! You might be surprised to hear that YOU are your child's most important music teacher right now—and it doesn't matter whether you think of yourself as a great singer and mover. Young children develop dispositions for certain behaviors, including learning to love music, by observing and imitating their loved ones. Simply by participating enthusiastically during class and playing with the song ideas at home and ourside of the classroom, you'll give your children the modeling they need to learn to love making music. Please no cell phone usage and we also ask you to wait to socialize until after class to help us create a music-centered environment.
What should I do outside of class?
Play your songs at home and in the car frequently, especially during the first few weeks of class. Allow them time to play and move freely while listening. You can even create your own "playalong" basket with homemade instruments- think spice shaker with dry beans or wooden spoons, etc. Show them how you might engage with any of our songs. Let them see you enjoying music and sing your favorites to and for them, whether that's jamming in the car or in the shower, throwing a full on dance party in the living room or slowing things down with a lullaby at bedtime.
What is the class size?
Classes have up to 12 families each.
Why aren't there classes for specific age groups?
Classes with children of different ages have multiple benefits for both younger and older children. In fact, the family-style learning environment is often recommended by many early childhood researchers. Older children learn empathy and awareness of others, while developing leadership qualities and gaining self-confidence. Younger children learn by imitating the older ones and can show more complex behaviors earlier than usual. Even babies benefit by being in an environment that gives them lots of opportunities to observe the behavior of children of varying ages. In addition, it allows everyone—siblings, parents, grandparents, caregivers—to share in the musical experience together!
Can we join classes after the semester begins?
UpBeat Louisville can easily accommodate late registrations and long as there are classes that have space for additional families. We will prorate the cost of tuition if you join after the session has begun.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Gift certificates toward classes can be purchased at any time. They make fabulous baby shower, birthday, or holiday gifts.
