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The Program:
In Keltic Kids classes we sing songs, chant chants, wiggle our fingers and toes, laugh, bounce and dance. We play instruments to music… quickly, slowly, quietly, loudly, on our tummies and knees and shoulders. Of course, we could get technical and talk about tempos and dynamics and body percussion, but because children innately absorb what is around them, we keep the lectures and descriptions to a minimum and know that the children are getting everything they need through play. The adults enhance the experience, and also benefit greatly as they tend to leave the classes a little breathless (no need to go to the gym on your Keltic Kids day), and with a smile, having spent quality time sharing a fun experience with their child, and learning new songs and activities into the bargain.
The Objective:
We could be very artsy and say that the goal of this program is to “promote an awareness of Irish culture and heritage.” For those who like that sort of thing, some of those benefits are listed on the benefits page. Truth is though, Irish music is just really fun… lively and infectious… infectious in a good way! Much thought has gone into the keys, modalities, rhythms, tonalities, time signatures, tempos, dynamics, etc. etc., but babies, toddlers, small children… they learn by just being present. They can’t help learning… it’s what they do! So, rather than telling you we’re providing an educational program and delivering mini-lectures on what we’re doing, we’d like you to come and play with us… dance, sing, hop like a bunny (or a frog, depending on the song!), travel around Ireland with our traveling song, tip-toe through parlors, and learn how to count to ten in Irish (Gaelic).
History & Gratitude:
Keltic Kids received initial funding and support from the Irish Arts Center. Much gratitude goes to the IAC (link on links page), and also the good people who allowed me to test my material on them!
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