Jambo!

Last Friday the children in Room A went to see a noon concert at the College. We saw the Jabali Afrika group frown Kenya. The children had a great time listening and dancing to very uplifting music. They also enjoyed and asked questions about the traditional native musical instruments, the clothes the performers wore and the language in which they sang.

I was delighted to see some of the parents who were close by arrive and take time to share this moment with their children and teachers. Nice way to break the winter blues. We all danced and had a good time. We were even late for nap time!!!! It was worth it.

Now let’s break this down: What did the children get from all this, besides the fun?

Well for starters: the children were exposed to something different. Music, language, dress, and instruments they don't see every day in a live context. The children participated in the performance. Now, when I play Kenyan music or read a book about Kenya or any other country, the children will have an experience to relate it to. Needless to say, the children will be much more interested and aware of any "ethnic" clothing I might wear to school or include in the dramatic play area – same as with other items around the room. Socially, the children had an opportunity to open up in a big and loud place and had a chance to express themselves. This, of course, leads to a healthy self esteem, a stronger sense of self; makes them feel closer to their peers, brings down any existing bias they might have heard.

I believe the event gave the parents an opportunity to be part of their preschool experience, in a "hands on" way. It brought closer the parents and staff. Hopefully coming together through this activity strengthened the parent's trust in their child's caregivers – not to mention all the other developmental areas that were touched upon, like, language, large motor, cognitive and so on.

So keep your eyes and ears open to any kind of cultural performance in your area and try to make it happen. This is just one of many opportunities.

Hope to hear from you.
Don't forget to smile.
N.