What's the 'Hullabaloo' all about? Hullabaloo Kids' Music classes are a great way to have fun with your child while also introducing them to a huge range of musical styles and instruments that they might not otherwise get to explore. Each term focuses on a theme and brings together songs, dances and creative play ideas about the things that kids love. For example animals, transport, going to the beach, or doing things around the house. Every class includes old favourite songs that kids love, as well as some new ones to keep things fresh. Hopefully you will find yourselves singing a few of these songs at home from time to time too!  Group dance . Group dances (above) help your toddler or pre-schooler to feel (and see!) the beat. They also aid the development of social skills, communication skills, language, memory and counting skills. "I can't believe it! We've done music classes before and she's never seemed interested. Now she's singing all the time! It's so great to see her so excited about music at last!" (Mother of a 3 year old) To find out more about some other benefits of doing music classes with your child, look at the 'Childhood development & music' page.

"Working full time, I look forward all week to Music classes with the kids on Saturday mornings - it is our special time together.  They have a great time...  Helps that it is active - so keeps them entertained for the entire lesson...and so lovely to hear them singing the songs from music throughout the week!" (Nic, mother of Raf and Gabriella - 3 and 1 years)                  Playing and listening to the drum. Listening to  & playing new instruments encourages listening skills. What do we do in a class? Class format varies depending on the developmental stage of your child.  The baby class (6 - 14 mths) involves lots of lap bounces, tickling songs, opportunities for physical connection and eye contact with your baby, and time for your baby to explore the musical instruments. The toddler class (1 - 3 yrs) allows lots of opportunities for the children to develop their fine and gross motor skills, by playing instruments and learning dances. There is always a focus on rhythm and pitch development. This class involves lots of lap bounces (leading to fits of giggles from your toddler!) and fingerplays which are great for developing counting skills. The pre-school class (3-5 yrs) is packed with learning opportunities disguised as fun! There are still dances to tire your little one out, but there are also lots of chances to play instruments and learn more about the foundations of music. This includes musical terms such as 'presto / lento' (fast / slow), 'forte / piano' (loud / soft) and pitch recognition of high and low sounds.

Building your child's musical understanding