We know that 5-8 YEAR OLDS are capable of so much more than their younger counterparts in the mixed age classes, but we also understand that PLAY is still a vital and important way for these children to learn. A newly piloted program RHYTHM KIDS Level 2 is an exciting music, movement and drumming class for children in kindergarten through second grade (ages 5-8). Children integrate an assimilate rhythm into their lives as they learn multicultural drumming patterns, develop advanced repertoire on percussion instruments, explore movement and dance while singing songs and playing fun games based on music and drumming. 

Children of this age are ready for more independence in the classroom, so parent attendance in each RHYTHM KIDS class is welcome but not required. Guided by take home materials, the entire family can continue the fun and learning at home and you can stay connected with what your child is learning in class. On her own in class your child will build life skills like leadership, decision-making and teamwork at the same time as she builds her music skills.

• Classes are 45 minutes long
• While this can be a "drop-off" class you (or another caregiver) should plan to attend the first and last class of the term.
• You may attend any and all classes if you wish.
• We cannot accommodate younger siblings during the class.          

Children integrate and assimilate rhythm into their lives as they:

• learn multicularal drumming patterns
• develop new repertoire on various percussion instruments
• explore movement and dance while singing song
• play games based on music and drumming
• make up story songs and gain confidence through solos, conducting and ensemble work.

Classes include:

• Weekly, 45-minute classes
• 2 CDs each semester
• access to online in-home activity pages
• access to online video tutorials and play alongs

Children will:

• Learn, create, discover and explore music, movement and drumming
• Enjoy age-appropriate ways to play rhythm instruments (shakers, tambourines, etc)
• Sing solos, ensembles, and vocal play
• Explore traditional drumming patterns through animal names and movement
• Experience drumming, song, and dance from around the world (Mali, Puerto Rico, Turkey, Ghana, etc.)

WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL YOU DO IN CLASS? 

By introducing developmentally appropriate activities such as drumming skills, instrumental solos and ensembles, choreography, harmony singing, and vocal development, your child will gain fluency in the language of music, which will lay the groundwork for successful formal training, should you choose to take that path.  

The Rhythm Kids program has a unique ability to encourage children's participation in class. Children that may have been quiet participators in the past come out of their shells to engage enthusiastically and energetically.

WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ALREADY TAKING INSTRUMENTAL LESSONS?

Rhythm Kids can be a wonderful accompaniment to lessons.  The play that your child will do in Rhythm Kids will strengthen her musical skills in different ways than lessons will, by allowing her to express in her voice and body the rhythms and melodies that she hasn't yet mastered on her instrument.