Operation: 88 Keys Game

Operation: 88 Keys is a game that I discovered through the Layton Music website.  This game helps teach & reinforce the names of the white keys on the piano which we are just now getting started on in lessons.  I designed some camouflage cards to go with her game which you can download here.  Print out 4 or 5 sets for this game and be sure to mix them up well!    Here’s how to play:

1. Each player takes their army man (or action figure, or princess doll, whatever you have) and places it on opposite ends of the keyboard.
2. Player 1 draws a card from the pile and moves his/her figure to the first available matching key on the piano.
3. Players alternate turns until someone reaches the other end of the keyboard.
4. The first player there gets to announce: Mission Accomplished!

You can use either the camouflage cards or you can write the musical alphabet letters (A-G) on separate pieces of paper and draw from a bowl.  However you do it, you are all sure to have a good time learning your white key names!

Music Monday! The Wheels on the Bus

Hey there parents- it’s Music Monday!  Each Monday I will be sharing a musical activity for kids & parents to do together at home.  Ages will vary from week to week so if you don’t see an activity that fits your family this week, be sure to stop back next time, or, you can also search our archives for more ideas by clicking on the Music Monday tag at the end of this post.

This week, let’s take an oldie but a goodie out for a spin (sorry, I couldn’t help it).  “The Wheels on the Bus” is a classic kids activity that we have all probably participated in from time to time.  Some of you may cringe at the thought of doing this song with your child but there’s a reason why EVERYONE knows it – kids love The Wheels on the Bus!  You can do this activity on your own with your singing voice (don’t worry, we can’t hear you & your kids aren’t Simon Cowell) or you can download a fun & funky version of the song to add to your music collection.  My son and I love the version from Kindermusik’s Play website that you can download here (No affiliate link – I just like to share).

With your littlest ones, sing the song to them and let them move freely to the music.  You can tap your lap, clap your hands, or do the song’s motions to show your child what to do.  Your child may watch you in wonder and amusement the first few times but keep going – they eventually will join right along!  You can also give them a rattle or plastic bowl & spoon from around the house so they can play while they listen.  Show them where the beat is, but don’t expect them to keep it with you.  Yet.  Just like the motions, they will mimic as they get older and soon you’ll have your own percussion section!

With the older ones (we’re talking 3 & up here) get up and move!  Show them the motions for the wheels going round, people up & down, wipers, & crying babies.  The older ones love to play together and are more than eager to join the imaginary bus ride.  (My son channeled his inner dancer and was in his own little world).  If you can, encourage them to move their feet on a beat, like marching & stomping, but free movement is good too.  It’s the exploration that matters here!

No matter how you share music time with your child, whether it be in a class, car, living room or waiting room, it’s good fun for everyone!

Facebook Friday!

Each Friday I’m over on Facebook sharing awesome piano lesson helpers for your child. Last week, we’ve played Flashy Fingers to help us learn our finger numbers & built a piano keyboard so help us with the lay of the land. What’s going on this week? Head on over to our Facebook Page, say “hi” & see what’s new this Friday! See you there!

Piano for Preschoolers!

I’ve had a bunch of requests for piano lessons for preschoolers and while a “traditional” lesson does not generally work well for them, there are musical activities that preschoolers enjoy that can prepare them for piano lessons down the road.

I am currently working to bring a preschool piano class to my studio.  If you are interested in a music class for your preschooler that goes beyond just music & movement, that teaches them about rhythm, note names, and the keyboard, please fill out this form (just email address & age of child is required) and we’ll let you know when classes begin!

You can also be added to our monthly Preschool Piano Newsletter with activities that you can do with your child at home!

Just click on the form below to be taken to our sign up page!

Facebook Friday!

Each Friday I’m over on Facebook sharing awesome piano lesson helpers for your child.  Last week, we played Flashy Fingers to help us learn our finger numbers.  What’s going on this week?  Head on over to our Facebook Page, say “hi” & see what’s new this Friday! See you there!