'Inside the Bubble' - Remote Music Education for Kids
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I started running some free online musical workshops for children at the very start of 'Lockdown' in March 2020. Nobody could have predicted how things would develop, but online working became a must for many of us! As we move beyond the lockdown, but with longer-term social distancing measures in place, please read on for more information on how we might continue to provide music education within the classroom 'bubble system'.
Thanks to support from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, I was able to continue to provide my free live-streamed workshops for children right through the summer and into the autumn term last year. This allowed me to develop my professional practice and evolve a new way of working which is very adaptable. My workshops focus on the development of fundamental musical skills such and listening, pitch and pulse, however as these have been very anxious times for many families it was important to me that I put well-being at the heart of my workshops.
Music supports good mental health, builds confidence, and supports emotional development. My aim has been to help children to develop a healthy musical mind during a stressful time. I have also made a deliberate attempt to integrate 'life skills' (such as good hygiene, stress reduction techniques & recognition of emotions) into my workshops.
The Public Health Agency acknowledges the great benefits of singing (as well as rhythm and movement) and recommends it as an activity which can support children with their self-regulation and their emotions. In an article on their website entitled 'Looking after our own and our children's emotions during COVID-19' the PHA say this: 'when children are in a fearful state, they also have a heightened state of arousal. Rhythm and movement can help to regulate them, such as walking, running, dancing and singing.'
Music education, (of which singing is a key part) is a fundamental part of the curriculum in Northern Ireland.
Music education:
If you think that the children in your home, school or 'bubble' would benefit from professional live/ pre-recorded/ interactive remote music workshops which are specifically tailored to the needs of your children then please get in touch.
As workshops are delivered remotely, distance is no object.
Because what I can offer is adaptable, your school can also provide the same musical education to children who may be isolating at home, providing much-needed continuity!
Thanks to support from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, I was able to continue to provide my free live-streamed workshops for children right through the summer and into the autumn term last year. This allowed me to develop my professional practice and evolve a new way of working which is very adaptable. My workshops focus on the development of fundamental musical skills such and listening, pitch and pulse, however as these have been very anxious times for many families it was important to me that I put well-being at the heart of my workshops.
Music supports good mental health, builds confidence, and supports emotional development. My aim has been to help children to develop a healthy musical mind during a stressful time. I have also made a deliberate attempt to integrate 'life skills' (such as good hygiene, stress reduction techniques & recognition of emotions) into my workshops.
The Public Health Agency acknowledges the great benefits of singing (as well as rhythm and movement) and recommends it as an activity which can support children with their self-regulation and their emotions. In an article on their website entitled 'Looking after our own and our children's emotions during COVID-19' the PHA say this: 'when children are in a fearful state, they also have a heightened state of arousal. Rhythm and movement can help to regulate them, such as walking, running, dancing and singing.'
Music education, (of which singing is a key part) is a fundamental part of the curriculum in Northern Ireland.
Music education:
- supports language skills
- improves recall & concentration
- improves co-ordination
- increases confidence
- helps to develop listening skills
- encourages teamwork
- nurtures positive discipline
- enhances well-being
If you think that the children in your home, school or 'bubble' would benefit from professional live/ pre-recorded/ interactive remote music workshops which are specifically tailored to the needs of your children then please get in touch.
As workshops are delivered remotely, distance is no object.
Because what I can offer is adaptable, your school can also provide the same musical education to children who may be isolating at home, providing much-needed continuity!
'My P2/3 class thoroughly enjoyed the 'hands-on', creative music workshop. The children were inspired to take part and their self-confidence blossomed in this area of learning.'
