CANORA - The Canora Public Library hosted a Kindermusik and Zumbini movement and early learning program on Dec. 16, geared for children aged five and under.
The session, led by Kim Gelowitz, Regional Kids First Community Developer, was for the children to learn about movement and music as a way to prepare them for school when they’re older, and at the same time giving their parents ideas to help the youngsters in this learning process.
Gelowitz opened by leading a group exercise. With music playing, she led the children and parents in using instruments such as shakers, rhythm sticks and bells, while moving up and down or from side to side. She also gave them see-through scarves to wave around or roll up like snowballs and throw at each other.
“We make sure to use see-through scarves, just so the little ones don’t get scared,” said Gelowitz.
After the group activities, there were various stations for the youngsters to explore with their parents, including: counting hot chocolate containers, making snowmen (which the kids could keep), and making cookies.
Gelowitz said, “The children are learning together through stories, movement, music and dance.”
Benefits include:
- The variety of rhythms create shifts in the moods of the children, some boosting their energy and others helping them relax.
- Music, movement and instrument play enhances a child’s language, memory and literacy development.
- Sessions connect children with their peers through dynamic song, dance and instrument play.
- Dance moves and instrument play activate both small and large muscle groups.
- Sessions promote the parent-child bond through shared moments of joy and quality time together.
Gelowitz said if there is interest, she hopes to hold similar sessions in Canora on a regular basis in the future.
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