How can we start our days with joy and maintain an easy rhythm and mood? Music!

During the pandemic I have noticed how music has greatly affected the mood in our home. The Elf King and I have an eclectic taste in music ranging from retro 60’s, to classical, to electronic to blues and jazz. This list doesn’t include our enjoyment of Latin, opera, big band, disco, Fado, Bollywood Dance and even easy listening music. First thing in the morning I tend to put on smooth jazz then Mark switches it to easy listening or 70’s pop/rock. Overall it keeps us flowing through our activities and puts a smile on our face.

When I reflect upon my childhood, I remember more often than not my parents would have soothing music in the background. Now with the pandemic when we listen to the easy listening tunes, I find myself being comforted with memories of my parents.

When I taught grade four I began the day with a different motivational song each day, during which we usually stretched to just to get the blood flowing before learning. As a kindergarten teacher, our day started at circle with two motivational songs on the smart board, namely This Little Light of Mine – with lyrics and Bruno Mars Count on Me – with lyrics. For both songs I had the lyric versions displayed to help cue the kids with the idea of reading as they sang. Oh sure most, if not all couldn’t read but seeing the print every day helped. Usually we asked one student to be the leader/star with the microphone (karaoke style). Often we added our percussion instruments.

Before moving out west, (Mark had already moved and I was to follow once retiring in March), I lived with Sarah Francis and her 5 year old daughter Gwen. Often Sarah would have spontaneous ‘dance parties’ with her daughter or start the day with a number of tunes. It was great fun!

Music therapy is an established respected area of study and counselling. Take a look at some of the links below.

Why do I share this with you? Take a look at the challenge…

Dazzle’s Challenge:

  • You might consider starting your day with your family with motivating music. In addition, throughout the day change up the tunes or if there is a conflict then consider taking a musical time out to reset perspective.

Quick Take Away Links:

Music and Children and Families

How can we start our days with joy and maintain an easy rhythm and mood? Music!

During the pandemic I have noticed how music has greatly affected the mood in our home. The Elf King and I have an eclectic taste in music ranging from retro 60’s, to classical, to electronic to blues and jazz. This list doesn’t include our enjoyment of Latin, opera, big band, disco, Fado, Bollywood Dance and even easy listening music. First thing in the morning I tend to put on smooth jazz then Mark switches it to easy listening or 70’s pop/rock. Overall it keeps us flowing through our activities and puts a smile on our face.

When I reflect upon my childhood, I remember more often than not my parents would have soothing music in the background. Now with the pandemic when we listen to the easy listening tunes, I find myself being comforted with memories of my parents.

When I taught grade four I began the day with a different motivational song each day, during which we usually stretched to just to get the blood flowing before learning. As a kindergarten teacher, our day started at circle with two motivational songs on the smart board, namely This Little Light of Mine – with lyrics and Bruno Mars Count on Me – with lyrics. For both songs I had the lyric versions displayed to help cue the kids with the idea of reading as they sang. Oh sure most, if not all couldn’t read but seeing the print every day helped. Usually we asked one student to be the leader/star with the microphone (karaoke style). Often we added our percussion instruments.

Before moving out west, (Mark had already moved and I was to follow once retiring in March), I lived with Sarah Francis and her 5 year old daughter Gwen. Often Sarah would have spontaneous ‘dance parties’ with her daughter or start the day with a number of tunes. It was great fun!

Music therapy is an established respected area of study and counselling. Take a look at some of the links below.

Why do I share this with you? Take a look at the challenge…

Dazzle’s Challenge:

  • You might consider starting your day with your family with motivating music. In addition, throughout the day change up the tunes or if there is a conflict then consider taking a musical time out to reset perspective.

Quick Take Away Links:

Music and Children and Families