MUSIC AT HOME

Many musicians sing about topics of interest to children. Some recommendations of great kids’ artists: Karen K & the Jitterbugs, Laurie Berkner, Brady Rymer, Alphabet Rockers, Ben Rudnick & Friends, Alastair Moock, Matt Heaton. Many of these musicians are Boston-based. Taking your child to see live music is a great way to get them engaged and connected! 

UPCOMING KIDS CONCERTS IN THE AREA!

Chat with your child about the music you like and why. “I really like classical music; it helps me relax.”
Ask questions: “I hear horns. What instruments do you hear?” Encourage them to focus on the details of the music. “This song has great lyrics. Listen to what they say here.” “What do you like about this song?”

TALKING TO YOUR KIDS ABOUT MUSIC!

Listen to the music your child likes with them and without them. Kids will be thrilled to hear you singing along to their favorite songs! Encourage them to dive deeper into their interests. If they’re always tapping their foot, look into drum lessons. If they’re singing along, look for opportunities for kids’ chorus groups or musical theatre. If they’re playing air guitar along to Metallica, look into electric guitars! Reach out to their music teacher for any support with locating lessons or instruments!

Dance with your child while listening to music at home! Play freeze dance with them. Have simple instruments around like egg shakers, drums, or bells they can use to engage in the music-making.

ACTIVE SONGS!

Make instruments together! You can make a simple shaker by putting dried beans or rice between two paper plates stapled together or in a plastic egg taped shut. Search your house together for makeshift instruments, like pan lids for cymbals. Write songs together by making rhymes within patterns. This is also a great way to help your student with other school skills. Can you come up with a song to memorize the multiplication tables? 

DIY INSTRUMENTS