Of music
At Puddle Ducks we know that it is so much FUN
to learn through music!
- Music is a Universal language which provides enjoyment and enrichment
- Music provides stimulus for creativity, and expression
- Learning songs and rhymes can develop memory skills
- Music has a profound effect on brain growth and development
- Motor coordination can be improved with rhythms, rhyme and music
Baby's Own Language
Everyone naturally uses a specific language (known as "motherese") when they talk to babies. This language is more musical than normal speaking and is effective because babies do not understand words, but they do understand pitch and melody from birth. Singing is even better! When listening to song, babies have been shown to be more attentive and respond more.
Every preschool Puddle Ducks class contains at least five songs, and often more. Customers have told us delightedly that Puddle Ducks is a music class in the water! All these songs have been carefully chosen to reinforce key activities and skills.
We are so committed to using music as effectively as possible, that we work in partnership with Kate and Dave Hext *, professional musicians who have composed and arranged numerous songs for us, and help with our teacher-training.
A Unique Opportunity
By incorporating music into our classes, we combine all the benefits of learning music, with the playfulness and physical closeness of swimming together. We create a unique opportunity for learning to swim in a playful, natural way. The songs also provide a wonderful link with home, and many children and parents will sing them throughout the week - especially in the bath! What a wonderful way to reinforce the skills, fun and enjoyment of our classes!
WATCH THIS SPACE for our first Puddle Ducks CD, arranged and performed by Kate and Dave Hext, due out in early 2008. Come to our introductory session for a sneak preview listening.
* Kate is Principal Timpanist for English Ballet Orchestra and runs MiniMusic, classes for babies and preschoolers, in Cheshire. Dave is Section Principal for the Halle Orchestra in Manchester; an experienced performer and composer. Kate and Dave are committed to the development of percussion playing and the use of "real instruments" in education. Their two young children are both learning to swim at Puddle Ducks, giving them a real appreciation of the benefits of music in swimming.
"Three Puddle Ducks"
"Where Is Mummy?"