MUSIC AND THE GROWING CHILD

ANALYN S. CONCEPCION

Human feelings are expressed through music. Music fulfills emotional, intellectual, and physical satisfaction. Children have many needs which may be satisfied through one or more of the various aspects of music- needs for aesthetic experiences, emotional, release development or sensitivity to beauty, creative expression, relaxation and enjoyable leisure-time activities and for social relationship.

Music can help to unite a group , create fine spirit. Participation in musical activities provides opportunities for the child to become aware of the ideas of others and to be sensitive to others’emotions. These common needs and capacities are to be considered when a school staff plans musical experiences that are interesting, enriching and satisfying for all children.

Singing is a very personal and satisfying means of expression. The voice is a natural instrument which provides a basis for many other musical experiences. Every child needs to sing for the sheer pleasure it may give him/her.

Listening is an integral part of all music activities. Through listening, children are helped to extend their experiences beyond their abilities to perform.

The quality of a child’s listening experienced by the teachers’ interest, enthusiasm attentiveness to the child’s needs during listening time. The atmosphere should be one in which children are comfortable and free from distraction. Such materials and equipment as recordings, pictures, books record player, tape recorder, radio, television and if possible videoke, all confine in one corner of the room or music room. Opportunities are provided for the many ways in which understanding feelings and attitudes are generated through listening experience action songs that require children to stand up and move around.

Just like animal songs, alphabet songs, and colors.

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The author is Teacher I at San Isidro Elementary School, San Simon District