I grew up in a family of musicians; attending recitals and concerts, camping out under my
mom or dad’s grand pianos when I was sick, ushering at concerts, and participating
in choirs and instrument lessons. I have
fond memories of family gatherings, singing together, always praying before
meals by singing the Doxology, and my parents often breaking out into song at
home.
Fast forward many years, to my first week as a new parent. Arriving home from the hospital with our
daughter Kathryn, I was overwhelmed with a fussy baby. My parents had travelled the 9 hours to North
Carolina to spend the first week with us.
I still remember my mom saying “Try singing to her. Singing often helps calm a fussy baby.” I sang Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, the first
song I could think of. It worked. When my parents left, I missed them greatly. I recall missing my family more those first
six months of Kathryn’s life than ever.
And then I found Kindermusik.
Kindermusik was truly like a taste of life with my
family. The activities and songs were
things I had grown up with throughout my childhood. The approach to early childhood development
felt second nature to me. I discovered a
family away from home with Kindermusik.
It was the next best thing to having my parents with me as Phil and I
raised our children.
Today, I am delighted to continue to share this with so many
families each and every week. I am
privileged to share some of my “family” with each of you. My parents have been very supportive
throughout my journey as Kindermusik educator and program owner, even having me
come demonstrate for their college music students at times in classes. What an honor and joy!
Things I learned from Kindermusik classes 11 years ago still
play a part in the parent I have become.
My family thrives on routine; we still sing the same 3 songs at bedtime
(Mommy Loves, Daddy Loves, from Kindermusik, Twinkle Twinkle, and Jesus Loves
Me). My family breaks into song regularly for no apparent reason. My children love to dance and move and read
and have developed a true love of music!
My life has been greatly enriched by my Kindermusik
family. Each child that has come into
the classroom is part of my family. Grandparents and parents and nannies are part of my family. The network of supportive Kindermusik educators worldwide are part of my family. Thank you for helping my family grow and grow and grow,
and for listening to my story!
Dear Christa,
ReplyDeleteI can't begin to tell you how much I appreciate your classes! Reed has come a long way in his development and I think Kindermusik was a big part of it. What I have discovered is he loves music, singing (like you, I started when he was just weeks old) and movement. Sometimes too much movement. But, to see him interact is so moving and important to me. I thought, at one point, he wouldn't be able to do some of the things he is doing now.
I know he still has some issues, but I hope he continues through Kindermusik, to develope more on a social level and becomes more outgoing.
This has been a nice experience for me too. I wish Kindermusik was around when my children were young.
Thank you Christa.
Reed and Pat