Music and Singing in the Early Years

Music and singing offer a wonderful opportunity to promote young children's learning and development. This "how to" guide is full of useful information to support and assist practitioners in developing their knowledge, skills and confidence in planning and leading successful and enjoyable musical activities in a range of settings.

Acknowledgments Introduction Chapter 1: Musical Development Learning Musical skills: the role of singing Vocal development Chapter 2: Melodic Matters Singing games and rhymes Supporting children's musical learning Chapter 3: Rhythmic Roots Rhythmic development Steady beat, Rhythm, Form and Structure Chapter 4: Developing a Song Unaccompanied singing with movement Using a companion song/rhyme Adding an instrumental accompaniment Chapter 5: Planning and Evaluation Planning individual music sessions Planning a music curriculum Observing children Chapter 6: Putting the planning into practice Checklist - 10 points for successful delivery Chapter 7: Resources for Music Making Glossary Further sources of information