Making Music with EarlyWorks

As part of Ausmusic month, the ABC is broadcasting a three part documentary focussing on the importance of music in the lives of children.

‘Don’t Stop the Music’ follows the journey of students and teachers at Challis Primary School as they discover the profound impact that a musical education can have.  If you missed this brilliant documentary, it is worth catching on iview.

 Why Music?

It comes as no surprise to us as early childhood educators that music has a significant impact on the way children learn. Both our planned and unplanned experiences often have music at their core. We might sing greetings as children arrive in the mornings, sing songs to guide children through routines, hum a tune while changing a baby’s nappy, or introduce songs to reinforce literacy or numeracy concepts.

The good news is that what we have always known to be true is now supported by research.

Researchers have been building up a convincing case, showing that music eases stress, stimulates brain development, aids memory and spatial awareness, supports communication and language development and promotes a sense of wellbeing.

Music and the EYLF

In their blog, The Spoke, Early Childhood Australia point out how music fits neatly within the EYLF elements of Belonging, Being and Becoming.

EarlyWorks and Music

Photos are one way EarlyWorks allows us to share what has been happening in our rooms, but what you might not know is that when you create an Observation or Journal in EarlyWorks you can also upload audio or video files.

Allowing parents to see their children singing, moving and smiling to music is a great way to keep families informed about your program and their child’s progress and importantly, the rich communication that happens through music (NQS 1.3.3).

Music resources for your service

We have been pinning some of our favourite music resources to our ‘Music and Movement’ Pinterest board. Check it out for ideas that you can incorporate into your service.