You have to pick your battles.
The wonderful humid weather did a number on Brynn's hair - actually I think it is exponentially larger than before. It's late and I think she's in her room almost asleep, but when I look closer, I see that the bed is empty. I follow the sound of the music on the radio and it leads me to my bathroom, my almost 12 year old, and my flat iron.
"Brynn, it's late and you have school tomorrow." I say (can you hear the annoyed tone in my voice?)
"I know mom. If I'm tired tomorrow, it's my problem."
Couldn't really say anything after that. I've worked hard to give my children age appropriate choices throughout their lives. This means, however that you have to really let them decide . . . . and live with the consequences.
When Brynn was little, we went to visit my brother in San Marcos. It was a cold, rainy fall day and we were headed out to lunch. Brynn had decided to wear her bathing suit that day. Yes, her bathing suit. I thought about it - will she be in danger if I let her wear her suit? Will this harm her in any way? No. . . so I chose logical consequence instead of battle. I'm sure she'll be cold and change her mind at any moment.
So we start driving, and my daughter is wearing a bathing suit. Of course, I brought real clothes just in case she changed her mind - which I thought would happen in the 45 minute drive up I35. . .
Nope.
OK, we're getting out of the car and it's windy and cold. Now, I thought, she'll want to wear clothes.
Nope.
You should have seen the looks I got from the people in the restaurant. There sits my adorable red headed daughter, enjoying her delicious lunch - wearing her bathing suit. It's a bit drafty in the restaurant - will she put on her shirt?
Nope.
We're back outside, it's still cold and windy, Brynn is still in her bathing suit. We drive to the outlet mall and then . . . . . . . in the Osh Kosh store. . . . . and the sweetest little voice says,
"Mommy, I'm cold. Can I put my clothes on?"
"Sure, let me help you!"
It was her choice and she decided for herself.
I'll take a little embarrassment over a battle any day.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
A Book
We're sitting at the dining room table (yes, homework again...).
"Is this a good book?" the boy asks.
(he's holding Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein - a book left on the table from a previous night of, you guessed it. . . homework)
"It's a book of poetry." I answer. "It's really funny. You should read some of them."
He flips through some of the pages. Of course, one of the wonderful drawings catches his eye. How could it not! He reads "Lazy Jane" and giggles.
One poem read silently turns into at least fifteen poems read aloud.
taking turns......laughing......discovering......sharing.......smiling
parent, child, and
a book.
"Is this a good book?" the boy asks.
(he's holding Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein - a book left on the table from a previous night of, you guessed it. . . homework)
"It's a book of poetry." I answer. "It's really funny. You should read some of them."
He flips through some of the pages. Of course, one of the wonderful drawings catches his eye. How could it not! He reads "Lazy Jane" and giggles.
One poem read silently turns into at least fifteen poems read aloud.
taking turns......laughing......discovering......sharing.......smiling
parent, child, and
a book.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Parents
I got to go back to middle school tonight. You know, the meet the teacher, 10 minutes per class open house. I started thinking about how crazy it is that my child spends all day with these people I don't know and I'm not there. Of course, she is in middle school - this is when it's supposed to happen. I started having flashbacks to our special time together when she was 4 years old and I took her to Yamaha class - JMC Book 1 - Saturdays at 8:30AM!!!
I feel so lucky to not only teach young children, but help cultivate the special relationship of parent and child. It seems that many other activities the parent is simply an observer, but in Yamaha classes, they are a vital part of our program. Because our students are so young, the parent must attend class so they can help reinforce the class activities at home. Parents do every activity with the child in class - sing, play, create, dance, and have fun. (ok - sometimes they complain a little about the dancing. . . )
The parent-child relationship is the core of a young child's world - and making music together strengthens it. I can't tell you how many times a parent has brought their child to music class because it's something they have always wanted to do themselves - and they get to share it with their child.
I can't think of a better way to spend an hour a week :-)
I feel so lucky to not only teach young children, but help cultivate the special relationship of parent and child. It seems that many other activities the parent is simply an observer, but in Yamaha classes, they are a vital part of our program. Because our students are so young, the parent must attend class so they can help reinforce the class activities at home. Parents do every activity with the child in class - sing, play, create, dance, and have fun. (ok - sometimes they complain a little about the dancing. . . )
The parent-child relationship is the core of a young child's world - and making music together strengthens it. I can't tell you how many times a parent has brought their child to music class because it's something they have always wanted to do themselves - and they get to share it with their child.
I can't think of a better way to spend an hour a week :-)
Monday, September 10, 2012
All About Keyboards
It was in 1887 when Torakusu Yamaha made his first reed organ. (Click for more info!) When I took Yamaha as a child in the 70s, we actually played on reed organs like this one!
Times have changed! Once a student is enrolled in the Junior Music Course or Young Musicians Course, they must have a keyboard or a piano to practice on at home. Portable keyboards are fine for the first year or two of classes, but you will need to upgrade for your child to progress to their full potential. The portable keyboards we use in class are not available for purchase, but here are some tips for finding the best instrument for your child.
1. Keys must be full sized with a minimum of 49 keys.
Notice how the keys on the organ above seem small - they are! If a child practices on a keyboard with smaller keys, they will learn an incorrect hand position.
2. Piano/keyboard must play the correct pitches.
This is one benefit to using electronic instruments. They never need tuning and are set to the correct pitch. Pianos should ideally be tuned every 6 months-1 year. In order for your child to confirm and solidify their ear training, the pitch must be A440. Basically, if they play middle Do (C) along with the CD, it should match!
3. The piano or keyboard should be YAMAHA!
This is not a requirement, but a very high recommendation! We have compared other brands and there's no comparison. Yamaha produces high quality instruments that are innovative and beautiful - to listen to and look at!
4. The instrument must be at a proper height.
Students should be able to sit comfortably at the instrument. They should not be reaching up to the keys, nor should they be hovering over them. A sturdy keyboard stand and bench are recommended. Typically, portable keyboards do not come with a stand or a bench.
Some higher priced digital pianos come with their own stand.
4. I have a piano - will that be ok?
Yes - assuming that it is in tune and all the keys work. Sometimes, however, it is very difficult for a small child (ages 4-6) to physically push the piano keys. This sometimes can create an undesirable finger and hand position. If you do choose a portable keyboard to start on, you will need to upgrade sometime during the 2nd or 3rd year of curriculum.
Still have questions? We are having a special Instrument Petting Zoo at our Family Fun Fest on Friday, September 14th from 6-8pm. Our friends at Alamo Music Center will be there to answer any questions you might have and give you a chance to compare the different types of keyboards available (weighted keys. touch sensitivity, etc.)
If anyone wants to buy me an instrument - this is the one I would like :-)
Times have changed! Once a student is enrolled in the Junior Music Course or Young Musicians Course, they must have a keyboard or a piano to practice on at home. Portable keyboards are fine for the first year or two of classes, but you will need to upgrade for your child to progress to their full potential. The portable keyboards we use in class are not available for purchase, but here are some tips for finding the best instrument for your child.
1. Keys must be full sized with a minimum of 49 keys.
Notice how the keys on the organ above seem small - they are! If a child practices on a keyboard with smaller keys, they will learn an incorrect hand position.
2. Piano/keyboard must play the correct pitches.
This is one benefit to using electronic instruments. They never need tuning and are set to the correct pitch. Pianos should ideally be tuned every 6 months-1 year. In order for your child to confirm and solidify their ear training, the pitch must be A440. Basically, if they play middle Do (C) along with the CD, it should match!
3. The piano or keyboard should be YAMAHA!
This is not a requirement, but a very high recommendation! We have compared other brands and there's no comparison. Yamaha produces high quality instruments that are innovative and beautiful - to listen to and look at!
Students should be able to sit comfortably at the instrument. They should not be reaching up to the keys, nor should they be hovering over them. A sturdy keyboard stand and bench are recommended. Typically, portable keyboards do not come with a stand or a bench.
Some higher priced digital pianos come with their own stand.
4. I have a piano - will that be ok?
Yes - assuming that it is in tune and all the keys work. Sometimes, however, it is very difficult for a small child (ages 4-6) to physically push the piano keys. This sometimes can create an undesirable finger and hand position. If you do choose a portable keyboard to start on, you will need to upgrade sometime during the 2nd or 3rd year of curriculum.
Still have questions? We are having a special Instrument Petting Zoo at our Family Fun Fest on Friday, September 14th from 6-8pm. Our friends at Alamo Music Center will be there to answer any questions you might have and give you a chance to compare the different types of keyboards available (weighted keys. touch sensitivity, etc.)
If anyone wants to buy me an instrument - this is the one I would like :-)
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Homework
It's Sunday night.
We had a fun day at a swimming party for my brother's birthday.
Now. . . . it's homework time.
Didn't I already pass 4th and 6th grade?
Yes. Yes I did - and I did very well, thank you very much.
I am a teacher, and yes, I give homework. But, I only spend one hour a week with them - so it seems completely reasonable that they would need to practice something before their next class. I only expect a student to spend maybe 10-15 minutes every other day. Of course, as their songs become longer and more difficult, they will need to practice longer.
What I don't understand is the amount of homework children get from schools and teachers that spend over 7 hours with them Monday - Friday.
I know that many people may argue that homework teaches discipline and responsibility, but I think that a child's time after school would be better spent outside playing with friends and family.
I encourage you to go visit this website:
http://www.thecaseagainsthomework.com/
or this one too :
http://www.alfiekohn.org/books/hm.htm
Take it a step further - talk to the teachers, talk to the administrators, talk to the school district.
That's all I have to say about that. (sorry. . . I watched Forrest Gump with my kids last night :-) on VHS!)
We had a fun day at a swimming party for my brother's birthday.
Now. . . . it's homework time.
Didn't I already pass 4th and 6th grade?
Yes. Yes I did - and I did very well, thank you very much.
I am a teacher, and yes, I give homework. But, I only spend one hour a week with them - so it seems completely reasonable that they would need to practice something before their next class. I only expect a student to spend maybe 10-15 minutes every other day. Of course, as their songs become longer and more difficult, they will need to practice longer.
What I don't understand is the amount of homework children get from schools and teachers that spend over 7 hours with them Monday - Friday.
I know that many people may argue that homework teaches discipline and responsibility, but I think that a child's time after school would be better spent outside playing with friends and family.
I encourage you to go visit this website:
http://www.thecaseagainsthomework.com/
or this one too :
http://www.alfiekohn.org/books/hm.htm
Take it a step further - talk to the teachers, talk to the administrators, talk to the school district.
That's all I have to say about that. (sorry. . . I watched Forrest Gump with my kids last night :-) on VHS!)
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Just One Week!
I am thoroughly enjoying my new Music Wonderland classes (for 3 year-olds). I have to tell you, thought, that the first week is really rough. I have to work so very hard to try to keep these adorable little kids interested for 45 minutes. The first class always seems so long and they get really tired, mainly because of how hard their little brains and ears are listening. You see, at this first class, absolutely everything they hear in class is brand new and they are trying to absorb every tiny sound they hear.
So after this first class, not only am I exhausted, but I'm also a bit worried -
will they be able to do it?
will they remember?
The parents and children go home and they listen to their CD and the next week in class - it's like a whole different class. You would think I wouldn't be surprised since I have seen this happen in many classes before, but every time, I'm completely amazed. They remember so much and are so focused in class. Usually a parent comments about what parts the child talked about during the week - remembering details from a particular song.
When my daughter was three, the US did not have the Music Wonderland course yet. My son was lucky - he was in the very first Music Wonderland class in the US. Both of my children are excellent musicians, but sometimes I see something in my son - almost a sparkle of knowledge - like he knows what he hears is special. He has started to notice that some of his friends don't hear music the same way he does. He was telling me about singing with other kids and he said :
"I can sing on pitch and know when the notes are right. You know, how the music gets in my head and then it's stuck there and I know all the notes?"
That's Music Wonderland at work! (7 years later!!!)
So after this first class, not only am I exhausted, but I'm also a bit worried -
will they be able to do it?
will they remember?
The parents and children go home and they listen to their CD and the next week in class - it's like a whole different class. You would think I wouldn't be surprised since I have seen this happen in many classes before, but every time, I'm completely amazed. They remember so much and are so focused in class. Usually a parent comments about what parts the child talked about during the week - remembering details from a particular song.
When my daughter was three, the US did not have the Music Wonderland course yet. My son was lucky - he was in the very first Music Wonderland class in the US. Both of my children are excellent musicians, but sometimes I see something in my son - almost a sparkle of knowledge - like he knows what he hears is special. He has started to notice that some of his friends don't hear music the same way he does. He was telling me about singing with other kids and he said :
"I can sing on pitch and know when the notes are right. You know, how the music gets in my head and then it's stuck there and I know all the notes?"
That's Music Wonderland at work! (7 years later!!!)
Friday, September 7, 2012
Boring recitals
We saw the movie The Strange Life of Timothy Green this afternoon. There was one funny scene where the main characters have to attend an annual musical concert put on by her sister and her family. They are set up in their living room :
the perfect mom at the piano
the three children playing the cello, bassoon, and flute
and my favorite - the dad playing. . . handbells!
Sitting cramped on the other side of the room are the family and friends who obviously don't want to be there. Of course, I thought this was funny and I know everyone identifies with this situation. But then I was wondered - is this what people feel when they are at one of my recitals or concerts?
What makes a recital boring? Hmm.....
You don't know anyone on stage performing
It's so much more fun to see someone you know - and it means a lot to the performer too!
You don't know any of the songs
The music is really slow
the perfect mom at the piano
the three children playing the cello, bassoon, and flute
and my favorite - the dad playing. . . handbells!
Sitting cramped on the other side of the room are the family and friends who obviously don't want to be there. Of course, I thought this was funny and I know everyone identifies with this situation. But then I was wondered - is this what people feel when they are at one of my recitals or concerts?
What makes a recital boring? Hmm.....
You don't know anyone on stage performing
It's so much more fun to see someone you know - and it means a lot to the performer too!
You don't know any of the songs
This is especially true for popular music. Usually when someone goes on tour, they have just released a new album. I always hate if I don't know any of the new songs!
It's really long
Any concert, no matter how wonderful it is, can get boring when it goes on forever!
The music is really slow
Maybe I'm thinking sleepy - for me, I'm thinking about those slow movements of some orchestral piece.....and it's dark. . . . .
They're singing in another language
It's so hard to enjoy something you don't understand. I always felt operas were boring until I saw the Austin Lyric Opera with supertitles!!! Supertitles are carefully choreographed translations that are displayed on a screen above the stage. What a wonderful invention!
You were forced to go and really don't want to be there.
I want to know - what makes recitals really special to you? Are there certain types of concerts that you always enjoy? Never enjoy? How often do you attend recitals? Do you seek them out? Do you make your kids go to concerts? Did your parents make you??
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