Title

The Effects of Music in the Early Childhood Classroom

Author

Kayren L. Woolum, Concordia University, St. Paul

Date of Award

2004

Document Type

Non Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Education

Department

Education

Program

Early Childhood Education

Capstone Instructor

Cecelia Westby

Second Reader

Carmen Cook

Keywords

early childhood education, child development, music in education

Abstract

Anyone who has been in an early childhood classroom knows that music is an important part of children's lives. Music is not only a part of our culture; it has a biological effect on our minds. While researchers are still studying the specific effects of music on cognitive learning and brain activity, studies have shown that music does have a positive impact. Teachers of young children have an awesome responsibility as they unearth the potential of their students. Many teachers feel inept in teaching music because they believe that they do not sing well enough or do not have enough musical knowledge. This leads them to rely on taped music and to use music as a tool for transitions rather than a cognitive area taught for its own value. Teachers can impart musical concepts to children in developmentally appropriate ways. This capstone will give early childhood teachers the means to accomplish this goal. This guide will assist teachers as they develop and present developmentally appropriate activities that teach musical concepts .

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