Assignment Task:
Respond to 2 of your colleagues' discussion posts by discussing two areas of strength in their communication plan. Also provide them with one suggestion to improve their tool. Response must be a Minimum of 200 Words
Discussion 1 (Letaysha)
For this discussion I chose to use the traveling backpack also known as the buddy bag. The topic of the buddy backpack is Music.
Traveling Backpack:
The traveling backpack is a tool used for children and families to use at home to practice different educational and development skills.
Inside each bag there is a stuffed animal which is called a "buddy" that acts as a learning friend for the child in which the traveling backpack's care it is in.
The Purpose of Communication with Families:
Music and movement are important during the early childhood stages. It enhances physical development, allows children to be creative and develop a form of expression for themselves. Language development is an additional key factor when music and movement is implemented. Music and movement can open up deeper emotional connections within the home setting.
What's in the bag?
Clear backpack
Sing a long nursery rhyme book and CD set
egg shakers
xylophone
Stuffed animal
Respond to 2 of your colleagues' discussion posts by discussing two areas of strength in their communication plan. Also provide them with one suggestion to improve their tool. Minimum of 200 Words
Discussion 2 (Trisha)
Music and Movement, Move & Groove- Bulletin Board for Family Communication
In our Head Start classroom, music and movement aren't just fun extras-they're part of the daily rhythm! As a Head Start teacher, it's actually a federal requirement to incorporate these activities, so I figure-why not make it as engaging as possible? That's why I created a "Music and Movement" bulletin board to show families what we're up to and give them ideas for joining in at home.
Tool Chosen: Bulletin Board
I chose a bulletin board because it's a colorful, quick way to share info with families right when they walk in. And, even when parents or guardians are busy, they always notice the bulletin board. No digging through a backpack or scrolling through emails-it's right there, full of photos, music notes, and even a QR code. It's all about making communication fun and easy!
Purpose of Communication
The goal here is simple: help families see how music and movement support their little ones' development. We're not just singing and dancing for the fun of it (though we definitely love it)-these activities are boosting coordination, building language skills, and more. By adding some fun at-home ideas, I'm inviting families to jump in on the action and create these moments together.
What's on the Board?
- Title - "Music and Movement, Move and Groove! ": This sets the tone and gets everyone in the groove!
- Photos of Our Dancing Days: These snapshots let families see their kids having fun, whether clapping along or showing off their best dance moves. The photos bring the joy of our activities to life.
- Quick Take-Home Tips: I added a "Try it at Home" section with easy ideas like:
o "Sing nursery rhymes together."
o "Have a dance party with favorite songs!"
o "Clap and stomp to make music." These simple, fun activities help families bring a little bit of classroom magic into their homes.
- QR Code to Resource Page: For families curious to know more, there's a QR code linking to a helpful article about how music helps with early development.
This bulletin board is more than just information-it's an open invitation for families to join in on the fun. By making it visible, simple and engaging, I hope it inspires them to bring music and movement into their own routines at home, too!
Port Discovery Children's Museum. (n.d.). 5 reasons music is important for early childhood development. Port Discovery Children's Museum.