In every Kindermusik class, you’re welcomed into a playful and nurturing environment where your child will experience music of varying styles, genres, and cultures. They’ll interact with other children and engage in movement, rhythm, and vocal activities that develop far more than just music skills. Our approach to early childhood education and award-winning, research-based, and developmentally appropriate curricula prime children for success in school and in life.
Parking
You can park in front at the main Mall Entrance, or pull around behind the Mall where we have a private entrance. Look for the blue doors between Old Navy and Dunhams in the small alcove. Please drive carefully as we have many small children and families in the parking lot.
Classroom Guidelines
During class, the most important thing you can do for your child is to be an active and patient role model. It is not uncommon for a child to attend several classes before feeling comfortable in class. Don’t be discouraged – what a child is absorbing in class is often evidenced in the comfort of the home environment rather than in a certain level of participation in class. The understanding and consistency of the parent or caregiver in class and at home are key to facilitating musical learning and growth. When you are an active, focused, enthusiastic participant in class activities, your child will model your actions and focus more fully too.
You and your child will enormously benefit from the Kindermusik experience, especially if you make active use of your At Home materials. Frequent reinforcement at home throughout the week makes all the difference in a child’s comfort and participation in the classroom.
Entering Class
Plan to arrive about 5 minutes early for class. Arriving a little before class provides time for your child to settle in to the musical environment as they prepare to enjoy exploring instruments, reading books, or listening to music. Please though, do not arrive much earlier than that as your educator may be wrapping up another class, or warming up her voice for your class. All classes begin on time; please try to be prompt. Occasionally, being late is difficult to avoid – please enter the classroom as quietly as possible.
Participation
Remember that parent/caregiver participation is a key ingredient to success in any Kindermusik program. Your commitment to regular attendance and ongoing participation with your child during class will lead to more satisfaction, sense of accomplishment and enjoyment for your child and you! Please refrain from adult conversation during class time. Your child is sensitive to the adults around him/her. As a side benefit, your teacher’s voice will remain in good shape if she is not having to sing or speak above the group.
Cell Phones
Please turn off or silence your cell phone before entering into the classroom. If you should need to talk on your cell phone, please take your child with you, and step outside.
Drinks and Snacks
Please leave juice and snacks in the car with the exception of those babies nursing or bottle feeding.
What to wear and bring
Kids (and parents) should wear comfortable clothes; we do a lot of movin’ and shakin’… We have a NO SHOES policy for parents and children, so please come prepared to go barefoot or wear socks. For babies, we recommend bringing a blanket for your baby to lay on during floor activities. A shoe cubby and coat rack are available for use during class.
Diaper changes
Please do not hesitate to change a diaper when necessary. Extra diapers and wipes are available at the changing table if needed in the back hallway.
Nursing
If you’re comfortable, we’re comfortable!
Disruptive behavior
Children make all kinds of sounds during the class. We call it vocalizing. However, if your child is really upset and is distracting the class, your teacher may ask you to take him/her outside for a hug and some reassurance and come back in as soon as he or she is ready. Should your child become curious about our music source or instruments, please re-direct him or her if your teacher is unable to.
Children with special needs
Music is a help in neurological, physical, emotional, social and cognitive development. We ask that parents talk with their teacher so that we may learn more about your child, and together we can make a decision about how to proceed or adapt in class.
Visitors
We welcome visitors to class and enjoy meeting extended family and friends. When possible, please let us know in advance so we can avoid overcrowding the classroom.
Financial Policy: HERE
