In Kindermusik Our Time the activities emphasize gross and fine motor development and language stimulation. The basic musical concepts that are reinforced throughout each semester are slow and fast, high and low, stop and go, loud and quiet and smooth and bumpy. All of which prepare our little musicians for grown up music words such as staccato and legato, piano and forte, allegro and lento, etc. Children acquire and maintain the ability to exhibit steady beat through the use of simple rhythm instruments, manipulatives and their own bodies. Built into each lesson is an exploration time during which the child and parent explore their own way to use, play with or listen to familiar and unfamiliar objects. Story time is offered in each lesson with age and theme appropriate literature designed to further enhance concepts being taught musically. Listening skills are also highlighted through focused listening activities and call and response. These skills will prepare our little ones for following directions and becoming a solid communicator. A great variety of music has been selected for the curriculum including old favorites, foreign language songs, songs using silly words and spoken rhymes and chants. Regardless of the academics, the children play, laugh, sing and interact with their adult. To them it is simply Our Time. For more information, visit www.kindermusik.com	Our Time home materials include: Two quality Kindermusik music CDs which contain the songs taught during the semester for at home listening and enjoyment. A family activity book that makes suggestions for at home practice and reinforcement as well as fun ideas for the family. Copies of the two literature books introduced in lessons 1-10 of the semester for reading and enjoying at home. An age and theme appropriate instrument for keeping the steady beat or play alongs at home. A fun carry all for storing these items at home. Spring 2012: Away We Go! -- Hop on the train, get in the car, board the plane, and Away We Go! This class focuses on transportation, a favorite topic for toddlers who are on the go, go, go! Sing and play along with favorite songs, such as “I’ve Been Workin’ on the Railroad” and “Wheels on the Bus”. Explore fast and slow, smooth and bumpy, and high and low. Read stories about ways to get around. Shiny Dinah tells the story of a train, and Giddy-Up! has a horse, speedboat, racecar, and more to help you get where you want to go. Home Materials: Double CD featuring songs from class; two interactive story books—Shiny Dinah and Giddy-Up! to develop early literacy skills; Home Activity Book, and two harmonicas designed for toddlers.