REFLECTION TWO - THE STEREO - 16 AUGUST 2013
Everyday at the kindergarten the children participate in music and movement. The stereo is used to provide the sound for their music opportunities. Knowing that the stereo is there for their own use at any opportunity provides a sense of ownership over what music they want to listen and dance to. It provides social interactions and the building of relationships in a group setting. Te Whariki states that children develop "an increasing ability to play an active part in the running of the programme" and a "sense of belonging, and having a right to belong, in the early childhood setting (Ministry of Education, 1996).
Through the use of power the stereo system is able to produce the sound of music the children are wanting to hear and provides the opportunity for the participation of social interactions. By having this piece of equipment available for the children to use allows a child's natural curiosity towards sound to respond to music in their own way. A freedom to explore sound and movement in a safe, secure place by listening to the music being played in response to what they are hearing (Arthur, Beecher, Death, Dockett, Farmer, 2007). Participating in music and movement develops confidence in their own abilities to move their bodies in a social setting with their peers. Listening to music and moving along with it enables children to use their gross motor skills when they are providing actions to go along with the sound coming from the stereo system.
Music is a great form of stimulation to encourage children's senses and foster cognitive development. Used in a social setting to build relationships among their peers builds a sense of co-operation by respecting each others perception of movement to music (Arthur, Beecher, Death, Dockett, Farmer, 2007). Being able to express themselves freely in social settings with their peers provides that sense of trust and caring within the kindergarten. Te Whariki states that children develop "a feeling of belonging, and having a right to belong, in the early childhood setting (Ministry of Education, 1996).
Hearing the music being played everyday that the children choose gives the environment the sounds of laughter and joy. This is what I hear every time the stereo is used for music. You will be guaranteed that by just switching the stereo system on for background music or if a child asks to have music played their will be a line waiting for their turn to choose something. This has shown that music is a big part of G kindergarten's curriculum and is being used as a learning tool of the children's choosing to further their interests. They are in control of their own learning and take ownership of this by creating opportunities to explore music that supports cognitive growth and encourages problem solving. Smorti states that "technology is about helping people and solving problems (Smorti, 1999). Being able to express yourself through dance listening to music is done differently by each child through body movements that are unique to them. Everybody's perception of what they hear from the music connects to the body causing the use of actions differently.
I believe that by allowing children to play music of their own choosing sparks their curiosity for other areas of interest to follow through from. What a better way for children to guide their own learning being supported by educators who follow their lead.
I believe that by allowing children to play music of their own choosing sparks their curiosity for other areas of interest to follow through from. What a better way for children to guide their own learning being supported by educators who follow their lead.
Keitha I have really enjoyed reading your reflections. I was drawn to “The Stereo” reflection because I can relate to it in my centre, Every time the music is on the environment definitely sounds of laughter and joy. I like how you said “Being able to express yourself through dance listening to music is done differently by each child through body movements that are unique to them” I totally agree with this, music allows children and adults to express themselves in their own ways, while still creating a connectedness with the people around them.
ReplyDeleteI like that the stereo is there for the children to use whenever they want. This shows that the children are free to explore their environment, which means that they will be confident in fully engaging in music and movement, allowing them to truly express themselves; which is great. Keep up the good work. Maybe to extend the children’s experience next time you could incorporate other materials while playing the music from the stereo for example: different fabrics or musical instruments for the children to further express themselves.