Reviews of audio CDs for daycare and preschool music and movement
Music, movement and musical development is important and beneficial during early childhood. Children who play or sing music regularly during the early years display higher performance in both reading and math when they begin elementary school. Music and movement activities increase both fine and gross motor skills, increase self esteem, and strengthen a child’s ability to cooperate with others.
Daycare providers and preschool providers are called upon to support musical development by providing stimulating music and movement activities as well as to provide experiences with a variety of musical equipment. Sing-A-Longs are a simple way to encourage music and movement participation. Audio CDs are a fun and easy way to introduce sing-a-longs into your curriculum.
Preschool Songs by Kids Classics [Cedarmont Kids, 1995] contains 43 tracks of sing-a-long favorites perfect for preschoolers. Each track is sung clearly by children and is easy to follow. The album is a mix of children’s favorites like “Ring Around the Rosy”, “Head Shoulders Knees and Toes”, “The Farmer in the Dell” along with other less familiar songs that children will grow to love.
Preschool Favorites [Music Little People, 2001] is a fun, interactive, energetic CD chock full of favorites for preschool aged children. Most songs are sung by both adults and children and include delightful sound effects. There are also many entertaining call-and-answer tracks which are always popular with younger children. “Pop Goes the Weasel”, “This Little Light of Mine”, and “Bingo” are highlights.
The Best of the Best Preschool Play Songs
The Best of the Best Preschool Play Songs [Madacy Kids, 2002] is a three-disk compilation of charming sing-a-long titles. With well-liked and exciting tracks like “I’m a Little Teapot”, “Rig-A-Jig-Jig” and “Five Little Chickadees”, it is easy to get even the most reluctant child to participate in both singing and movement.
Superbudget Kids: Preschool Songs
Superbudget Kids: Preschool Songs [Madacy Kids, 2004] is a value packed bargain. For under $5 enjoy 30 fantastic well produced songs for preschool music and movement time. Kids will love its energetic sing-a-longs like “Five Little Monkeys”, “The Green Grass Grows All Around”, and “I’m a Nut”.
Smart Moves 1
For the younger set (toddlers through preschool aged children) try Smart Moves 1: Tots thru Pre-K by Abridge Club Entertainment [Russ InVision, 2004]. This audio CD won a Parents' Choice Approved Award in 2004 and the 2004 Directors' Choice Award. The disk includes 24 tracks (7 of which are in Spanish) sure to encourage development in both fine and gross motor skills, listening skills, and body identification.
All of the listed audio CDs can be previewed and purchased on Amazon.com brand new (or at a very significantly reduced price if purchased used).
