Music and Dance Education: A Missing Piece in Preschool and Transitional Kindergarten?
The Californer/10287734

LOS ANGELES - Californer -- Early Exposure, Lifelong Benefits

A recent Los Angeles Times article explored the complexities of choosing between preschool (PreK) and transitional kindergarten (TK) for children. However, Laura Porter, a professional musician, early childhood music educator, and co-founder of Bloom Arts, believes a crucial element was missing: music and dance education.

Early Exposure, Lifelong Benefits

Bloom Arts, a non-profit organization, brings inclusive, multicultural music and dance education to underserved schools across Los Angeles. Their focus is on early childhood, where research shows access to music and dance provides both immediate and lasting benefits.

"Our goal is not to create performers," explains Porter. "Instead, we aim to teach foundational skills like pulse, rhythm, and singing on pitch. These seemingly simple activities, like tapping to a beat, leads to improved pre-literacy skills and increased self-regulation in young children."

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Transformative Impact on Young Learners

Bloom Arts' Early Childhood Music and Dance Educators work in over 200 classes per week in Preschool, Transitional Kindergarten and Elementary schools across LA. They've witnessed firsthand the transformative impact these classes have on children.

"We've seen significant improvements in social-emotional learning, cognitive skills, empathy, and more," says Porter. "Music and dance education fosters a sense of safety, introduces different cultures, and empowers differently-abled learners to express themselves in new ways."

Choosing the Right Program

Parents can assess their prospective preschool or TK program's commitment to music and dance. Here are some tips:

• Frequency: Look for a program offering music or dance classes at least 30 minutes per week.
• Integration: See how the program incorporates music and dance throughout the day, building community and reinforcing learning.
• In-Classroom Observation: Observe teachers using music and movement during transitions, modulating their voices while reading, and utilizing musical props.

A Joyful Head Start

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"A preschool or TK program that values music and dance gives children a joyful, powerful head start," concludes Porter. "So, consider adding it to your list of criteria when choosing a program for your child."

About Bloom Arts Foundation

Bloom Arts is a non-profit organization dedicated to making inclusive, multicultural music and dance education accessible to Preschool aged students all the way up to 6th graders across Los Angeles County.

URL: https://bloomartsfoundation.org/