Makin' Music Delaware
About the Makin' Music program:
About classes:
Registration:
Other questions:
Why is Makin’ Music different from other music programs?
Makin' Music Rockin' Rhythms has won 11 national awards, including Nickelodeon’s Parents’ Pick Award for Best Music Classes, plus Main Line Today’s “Best of the Main Line” and Philadelphia Magazine’s “Best of Philly” awards for Children’s Music Classes. The music is fresh, original and loved by parents and children alike. Audios are recorded and produced at the highest quality using only the best musicians. Folk, rock, jazz, blues, country, original, traditional and ethnic music…you’ll hear all these styles and more in our music.
What types of music will be used in class?
Our material includes traditional American folk songs, multi-cultural songs, rhythm chants, echoes, finger plays and our own original songs. The CDs are recorded with a full complement of musicians and our own teachers. Children and parents enjoy listening to the music over and over again!
What will my child learn with Makin’ Music?
Research confirms that music shapes growing minds. When children sing and play music they become better readers, thinkers, and learners. Music at a young age can help with the development of verbal skills, pitch, rhythm and timing, imagination and imitation, large and small motor coordination, motor skills, memorization, math readiness and spatial skills. Makin’ Music classes will also help children develop important preschool concepts such as high and low, fast and slow, finger dexterity, ball bouncing and rolling, color recognition, and social skills.
How do children participate in class?
Allow your child to participate in the way he feels most comfortable. Some children participate actively, while others choose to observe from the safety of their mom’s lap. Both are quite normal and whatever they choose is right for them. If you have an active child, allow her to move about freely (we discourage outright running). The room is relatively safe; you don’t have to chase her unless you sense trouble. If your child stays in your lap and listens, he is “taking it all in.” When the music is played at home, he will most likely sing, dance, and mimic class activities. Most children become accustomed to the class routine after a few weeks. At this point, their participation is likely to increase. However, don’t become discouraged if it takes a little longer. We will be happy to talk to you about any concerns you might have.
How do parents participate in class?
The teachers are only the catalysts. As a parent, the more you participate in class, the more involved your child will be. Your musical talent and ability do not matter. The most important things you can model for your children are simply pleasure, interest and the desire to participate in the musical activities. If you are not participating or are socializing with your neighbor, your child will lose interest. So, clap your hands, wave your arms, and sing out loud! This is great fun! Relax and enjoy yourself.
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Can siblings attend the same class?
Siblings can participate together in all of our classes. Children ages infant to five years old learn by playing with you and interacting with the other children and teachers, and they will learn at their own level and pace. The same song may be about fine motor skills for a younger child, while older children are developing rhythm and imagination. We do our best to individualize each class to meet the needs and abilities of all of the children present. We change activities frequently to respect the children’s attention spans and provide plenty of repetition for creativity and learning.
Are babies welcome in class?
Yes, babies are a welcome and wonderful addition to our classes. The earlier children enjoy music with their families, the easier it is for them to express themselves musically as they grow older. Many of our infants come as siblings and are part of the circle in their infant seats. They love to watch and listen at first and then participate when able. And, we offer sibling and infant discounts!
Can special needs children attend class?
All children are welcome to join the Makin’ Music community, regardless of their individual needs. We have long recognized the therapeutic value of music for all children, and we encourage you and your child to participate in any way you feel most comfortable.
My child is sick; may I bring him to class?
For everyone’s health, please do not bring a sick child or sibling to class. You can find the make-up policies here.
As a parent, how can I help my child get the most out of class?
It is very difficult to keep lots of toddlers from being distracted. The teachers work very hard to engage your child in the activities. You can help us by doing the following:
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Do not bring toys, food, or drinks into the classroom. It only takes one child to have a cup or a special toy and they all want one! Please save the drinks and food for after class. They can be kept in the car or outside hallway.
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Please make sure your child is sitting when using rhythm sticks. If your child needs to dance, put the sticks down, or we have soft sticks that your child may hold and dance away!
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Please do not bring an ill sibling to class who is home sick from school. If they are too sick to attend school, they are too sick to come to class.
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Too much chatter between adults during class is distracting to the children and teachers. We welcome families and friends that join the classes together; however, our purpose is to allow you and your child to have some musical fun together. If you are talking to other adults instead of participating, your child will feel left out. Believe it or not, we get more complaints from other parents about this problem than about anything else!
How do I register for classes?
You can register online, over the phone at 302-448-6337, or by mail. Download our registration form. For our full registration policies, click here.
What happens if I miss a class?
Schedules change and things happen! If you have to miss your class, you are welcome to join us in any of the other classes that week (or whenever it fits into your schedule). We try to leave a little wiggle room in each class to allow for make ups and other visitors. In addition, we typically tack on an extra week at the end of the session as a make up class for anyone who wasn't able to come to another class. Please note that there are no refunds for missed classes that aren't made up. Our full make up policy is included in your welcome packet and is posted online here.
Can I try a class before I register?
Absolutely! We'd love to meet you and show you what Makin' Music is all about. Please call 302-448-6337 or email nancy@makinmusic.com to schedule a trial class.
Do I have to register for the entire session?
If you know you will not be able to attend the entire session or make up the classes you will miss, we are able to prorate the session for the number of classes you can attend. Please note:
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If you are registered for fewer than seven classes, a CD will not be included with tuition, but you may order a CD for an additional $15.
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Discounts and coupons can only be applied to full, 10-week registration.
Can I register after a session has already begun?
Yes, you can join us at any point during the session. We will prorate the remainder of the session. Please note:
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If you are registered for fewer than seven classes, a CD will not be included with tuition, but you may order a CD for an additional $15.
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Discounts and coupons can only be applied to full, 10-week registration.
Do you play at birthday parties and other events?
Absolutely! We love birthdays! We bring out our guitar, props, and all the fun of class, plus a special gift for the birthday child. We're also available to do block parties, picnics, meetings - you name it! For more information on birthdays click here. For other events, click here.
We have friends/family visiting from out of town. Can I bring them to class?
Yes! Friends and family are more than welcome to join us for a visit, provided the class isn't too full. If you're unsure, just give us a call at 302-448-6337, or email me at nancy@makinmusic.com. In most cases, we try to leave enough wiggle room for visitors!
Where can I buy the instruments we use in class?
You can find a great assortment of quality musical instruments for sale right here. All of the instruments offered through Makin’ Music Rockin’ Rhythms have been tested for years by parents, teachers and children in our weekly classes. They are very durable in construction, so you can be assured of a long lasting product. Even the tiniest hands can handle these instruments with ease and confidence.
Where can I buy the music we use in class?
You will receive a CD with your tuition. If you would like to purchase a CD outside of class, or perhaps an extra one for a gift, let us know and we can order one for you. Cds are $15.
Do you teach guitar/piano/vocal lessons?
Mr. Mike teaches private guitar lessons for students age 10 and up (yes, adults, too!). Miss Nancy can teach (very) basic piano lessons for students age 7 and up. We also have many friends and mentors who teach many different instruments, and we're happy to give referrals and recommendations. Just let us know!