early language development

FOL Fridays: Pairing Language with Movement

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Pairing language with movement sets the stage for cognitive and kinesthetic learning.  The right hemisphere of the brain is our emotional side where much of our creativity is channeled.  The left hemisphere organizes logical skills, such as language.  When children are engaged in movements determined by the lyrics, the brain automatically cross-references both hemispheres, mapping creativity and logic (Fishbourne, G. 1998) Tips for parents: 
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4 best practices for teaching young English Language Learners

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Early language development begins long before children say recognizable words. Linguist Patricia Kuhl notes that a six-to-eight month old baby can discriminate any sound in any language. In early language development, children naturally learn phonetically by interacting with other people. In contrast, learning another language in later years, such as in high school or at university, often includes many hours of learning through grammar,
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6 reasons to use music and movement to teach English Language Learners

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The number of English Language Learners enrolled in PreK programs and elementary schools in the United States continues to grow. Using music to teach English Language Learners can be an effective way to help ELL students experience gains in early language development. 6 ways music and movement support the early language development of ELL students Music stimulates language learning, builds phonological and phonemic awareness,
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Music & Reading: 2 of our favorite things

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Yes, it’s true. As creators of music education programs and early literacy curriculum, we love both music and reading. Study after study continues to show how music can support a young child’s early literacy and language development. As Julie Andrews would sing, music and reading are like “raindrops and roses.” It’s no wonder that music and reading are two of our favorite things. After
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Early language development helps toddlers manage emotions

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Make no mistake. Toddlers wear their hearts on their sleeves. No one expresses pure emotion quite like an 18 month old. From the sheer delight of enjoying the sticky goodness of an ice cream cone to the depths of despair when it’s time to leave the playground, toddlers give Oscar-worthy performances daily. Child development research shows that parents, preschool teachers, and other caregivers can
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