Bryann Burgess Apprenticeship

2011-08-01T17:48:00.001-04:00

What a full year we have shared teaching ABC Music & Me together! We've been BUSY reaching children in the classroom with the gift of music and movement. For our last class of the semester, we took time to celebrate the closing of another school year by taking pictures in the garden of the preschool. Bryann's professor and good friend of ours was able to join us as well. She has been one of the most important of key ingredients during our time together, has served as my mentor and friend throughout this proces. But more importantly, she has helped us so much by working to create practical experiences for Bryann through the Carolina LIFE college program at the University of South Carolina.

Thank you, K and the Carolina LIFE team! :)

Here's Bryann taking careful note of attendance one last time for Spring 2011 Semester:

Kathleen, Bryann and I-Spring Semester 2011

Onto another year.....!! :-)

2011-06-01T18:03:00.000-04:00

Memories of the past Spring Semester 2011:

Here we are, enjoying time together. What a wonderful group we've had at the school this year! We are always so thrilled to watch the same group grow and learn together throughout the entire school year.

Here's one of our class pictures!

What a sweet pair of sisters and their mother! We will miss you!

More to come!!

2011-02-10T16:30:00.003-05:00

We would like to share with you, a news clip from our local WLTX TV station by Lauren Talarico.

Teacher Born With Down Syndrome Breaks Stereotypes

Congratulations, to Bryann Burgess and her family!

“Your journey never ends. Life has a way of changing things in incredible ways.”

-Alexander Volkov

Without all of you.... this would be impossible...

A special thanks to Kindermusik International, for creating such wonderful teaching materials and classroom materials for us to learn and grow from, and to share with others the magic of how 'a good beginning' never ends.

Thank you to CarolinaLIFE, and the folks at the University of South Carolina for your support and guidance throughout this continuing process. Without you, this opportunity wouldn't exist.

Also, thank you to the parents and teacher staff at Harmony School, who so graciously shared their children with us so the spirit of the class could be captured, paired hand in hand with Bryann's passion for life, learning, and teaching.

Congratulations, Bryann! You are truly an inspiration to us all, and your passion and love for learning is outstanding. Thank you for bringing your authenticity to class, for becoming the beautiful young lady you were created to be, and thank you for teaching from the utmost compassion and from your heart for these children.

To Bryann's parents....a huge thank you to you, who have shared in this incredible journey with Bryann longer than anyone else. You are the true heroes, here. And we congratulate you both, on raising a beautiful, outstanding, and very talented daughter.

Congratulations, Bryann!! You are outstanding!!

Alison Trotter

To read the article Click here: http://www.wltx.com/news/article/121995/2/Teacher-Born-With-Down-Syndrome-Breaks-Sterotypes

2011-02-08T17:46:00.005-05:00

Dear Readers,

Part of our journey together at Notable Accomplishments, is to share in the celebration of your story, too. We would like to hear from you. We believe that when sharing a story about our lives, it is not truly complete unless we share about the journey along the way, about the stepping stones that have brought us to where we are today.

The first remarkable story we'd like to share with you, comes to us by way of Jeannie Castillo, a Kindermusik director, educator and maestro all the way from the Philippines. Her love for her son, Jamie, has inspired us to continue our vision in what we do during this apprenticeship, and how we support Kindermusik International's new project for those with special needs and their families--a project called Kindermusik for Every Child.

Jeannie shares her story:

Click here for Jeannie's inspirational story

Jeannie Castillo is actively involved in this new digital endeavor for Kindermusik International, and remains an inspiration to everyone not only because of her story, but for the authentic passion she shares in proactively reaching all children with Kindermusik, even with children who have special needs, great and small.

Stay Tuned to hear this beautiful story, from a very sweet family, that will unfold in just a short while...

Until then...take some time to get to know Jeannie Castillo, a remarkable mother and Kindermusik educator, whose family's story will capture your heart, and inspire your world with her passion for sharing music with all children, of all capabilities, and their loving families.


Jeannie Castillo

"I love teaching Kindermusik, because it combines my love for learning and music, while honoring parents and children, families, in the learning process . . . to me, there is nothing more beautiful than seeing a child dancing in his mother’s or father’s arms, feeling completely and totally happy and secure. I am so blessed that I get to share in these precious moments of our Kindermusik families . . . Kindermusik is truly a magical experience that I am privileged to share with the children and families in our community.” -Jeannie Castillo

To find out more about Kindermusik in the Philippines, please visit:

http://www.teacherjeannieandcompany.com/teacher_jeannie.html

Jeannie shares her story:

http://yourjourneyalongtheway.blogspot.com/2011/03/jeannie-castillo-shares-her-journey.html

To share your story, e-mail us at notableaccomplishments@gmail.com

2011-01-25T23:30:00.001-05:00

Dear Readers,

It's hard to believe that, with nearly 60 blog posts, over a hundred classes with Bryann by my side, and hours of one on one training with her, that it's only been a year and a half. We've done so much in that time frame, and we are still making great strides and spinning forward with full force to more accomplishments!

As you may know, the purpose of this blog has not been to document the perfect about this apprenticeship, because you won't find that here, but to simply celebrate and acknowledge the progress that we've made. Of course, this isn't just an online diary of the perfect, but simply the good paired with the struggle, which makes a journey a journey. A story, a story.

And what a beautiful one it is.

Thank you for taking part in this journey, and continuing with us as it unfolds...

Telling you here, on a blog-page, wouldn't suffice enough to mention how this process has charged me to many different levels, both personally and the way I operate as a business.

Bryann Burgess, has stood by my side in class, with passion like no other, and a determination to learn. She actively participates and engages in all musical activities with the children and families we serve.

She is living her life with passion, and she is a natural at teaching.

She is leading and creating, and just like anyone else, she is filled with love and joy as she pursues her true passions.

I am honored to know her, to have her as a 'side-kick' and I'm excited for her future!

"Press forward. Do not stop, do not linger in your journey,

but strive for the mark set before you."
-George Whitefield

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams"

-Eleanore Roosevelt

"Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. Remember all things are possible for those who believe."

-Gail Devers

You are doing it, Bryann! Keep following your dreams and being true to who you are and who you want to be. You're a shining star, and a beautiful example to others. I am proud of you. I'm honored to have witnessed your sheer determination to be your very best. Your progress in teaching has astounded me, and the world, and there's no telling where you'll be next! Congratulations on all you've accomplished during this apprenticeship!

Love to you dearly,

Alison Trotter

2011-01-22T23:47:00.001-05:00

Kindermusik for Every Child

Kindermusik is for EVERY child: special needs in the Kindermusik classroom

Written and compiled by Theresa Case, whose Maestro Kindermusik program at Piano Central Studios in Greenville, SC is proudly among the top 1% of Kindermusik programs world-wide.

At Kindermusik, we’ve known for a long time that our program is wonderful for children with special needs. The 2010 Kindermusik Educator of the Year, Ally Trotter, believes this so strongly that she is leading the way with an exciting new initiative called Kindermusik for Every Child. Her vision is that Kindermusik for Every Child will be a collaborative compilation of resources for educators specifically geared toward reaching children with special needs and their families in the Kindermusik classroom.
Ally’s inspiration for this project is rooted in the fact that one of the many strengths of Kindermusik is its focus on the different developmental needs of each stage of childhood. Each Kindermusik class level is designed to give every child the most appropriate and stimulating environment to nurture their developmental needs. In fact, it is Kindermusik’s musical and developmental basis that makes the program such a natural and effective way to augment occupational, physical, or speech therapy.
Each child has his or her own developmental patterns of growth, and the special needs child is no exception. Instead of rushing ahead, Kindermusik celebrates and explores each stage, fostering joy and creativity and respecting a child’s unique pattern and pace of growth. As a result, Kindermusik classes provide a unique place where the child with special needs can actively participate with peers of all abilities without pressure to perform in any way.
Dr. Melissa Johnson, a pediatric psychologist and advisor to Kindermusik International, says that Kindermusik can be an effective part of the educational and therapeutic plan for young children with developmental challenges. She points out three reasons she sees Kindermusik as a wonderful resource for children with any variety of special needs.
1. It facilitates inclusion. Beyond just mainstreaming these children, Kindermusik offers them full involvement in community activities, while giving them the support necessary to succeed. For example, children with motor disabilities such as cerebral palsy or spinal bifida may not be able to participate in children’s activities that focus on developing excellence in motor skills. But Kindermusik activities are accessible or readily adaptable to these children’s capabilities.
2. It is based on a multimodal, multisensory design. Kindermusik curricula are enriched with stories, pictures, creative movement and a wide variety of interesting objects as part of activities that pull children into the interaction no matter what their preferred learning style and mode might be.
3. It nurtures the individual child’s emotional and social development. The emphasis on the joy and pleasure of music, on the sharing of this joy with one’s caregiver and peers, and the support of the child’s self-esteem make it particularly appropriate for children and families who face psychosocial stresses and difficulties.
There is one pediatric occupational therapist in particular who agrees. We recently came across her blog entry where she describes first-hand the amazing effects Kindermusik can have, and she has become a vocal advocate of the program. “I have had many OT (occupational therapy) clients who weren’t learning to talk with just speech therapy or developmental services, but did learn to speak after attending Kindermusik classes! Now, it is not designed just for the special needs child yet these children potentially can benefit greatly.” To read her blog post in its entirety, including a powerful testimonial about the way one little boy benefitted from Kindermusik, click here.
Children ages newborn to 7 years around the world love and benefit from their Kindermusik classes every day. But don’t just take our word for it… try it out for yourself! Click here to sign up for a free preview class. We’d love to meet you!
Written and compiled by Theresa Case, whose Maestro Kindermusik program at Piano Central Studios in Greenville, SC is proudly among the top 1% of Kindermusik programs world-wide.

2010-11-01T21:34:00.001-04:00


We are on Week #2 of Family Time at The Therapy Place!

Musical Instrument Play is fun!

Katie Burgess, also joins in on the fun during a circle dance!

Lilly Crisp joins us with her sister and her Mother!


Bryann brings her enthusiasm for dance to class!

Beat and Rhythm...an important part of our focus today!

Always singing!

Sing your way through the week!

The Therapy Place is one of the happiest places to be in Columbia with it's charming facility filled with caring, dedicated people and beautiful murals by Suzanne Baldwin

(http://www.facebook.com/pages/Su-Bees-Artistic-Creations/134040006609235)

Bryann continues her apprenticeship and is gaining experience by assisting me in The Family Time class at The Therapy Place. Having the parent-child interaction is a special experience not only for the families, but for us as well. Seeing a variety of children from different backgrounds, ages and abilities come together to participate in a music class with their loved ones, is a treasure.

Classes are held Mondays from 4:00-5:00pm at The Therapy Place.

"Some people come into our lives, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same."

-Franz Peter Schubert

2010-10-29T14:10:00.001-04:00

Fall Sessions 2010 ABC Ages 2-4


Fall Sessions 2010 ABC Ages 4-6

Applying the Piano Component:

Providing Children with a hands-on musical experiences through Instrument Play:

In Every ABC Music & Me Curricula for ages 4-6, there is a 'piano component' used as a tool to introduce musical concepts like the 'quarter note' and 'quarter rest'. Here, you can find us exploring the piano keys, each taking turns before introducing a new concept. Introducing your child to musical concepts in Kindermusik is a GREAT way to prepare them for future musical instruction on any desired musical instrument.

Leading By Example: Bringing Useful Skills and Talents
One of the best ways to captivate a child's interest in an activity during a Kindermusik class, is to model the task before them. Bryann gracefully demonstrates her piano playing ability for the children with a song she has committed to memory, Pachelbel's Cannon in D. Stay tuned for ways we incorporate her piano playing into the Kindermusik experience for these children!

“One mark of a great educator is the ability to lead students out to new places where even the educator has never been.”

-Thomas Groome

2010-10-16T00:22:00.001-04:00


		Beginning of Apprenticeship in September, 2009

Continuation of the Apprenticeship 2010

A Tribute to my Dear Friend

As we progress and learn and grow

We've grown closer together more than we could ever know

It's funny to think of us never meeting

If our paths hadn't crossed,

or gone beyond a simple greeting

Never forgetting the journey encountered along the way

The bumpy road or simply a difference in pace

Always learning from life, being challenged and changed

Given to us both, a path is made, a way is paved

There is more to this story than words could attempt to portray

And these moments we spend together are treasures

filled with meaning and purpose for each of our days

For it wasn't some mysterious fluke for us to have met

It wasn't an acted out event or a bet

It wasn't some made up or take it by chance

It wasn't a ready made performance or dance

It is for a reason, it is for a rhyme

I know in my heart, the plan was more than just mine

Our paths were made to coincide

We were made to have each other to stand beside

-Alison Trotter

2010-08-20T13:26:00.002-04:00

Not only do Bryann and I share the same interests, but we also share the same birthday. We also both enjoy Italian food, so we celebrated at Olive Garden this year and last year.

Olive Garden, August 20th, 2009

Olive Garden, August 20th, 2010

Although, this year, when they brought out the decadent chocolate cake list with two candles, there was no singing or clapping. Our waiter brought it out quietly to us and informed us of the new rule:

No singing to the customers.

Know what we did?

We sang anyway AND clapped the familiar song anyway!!

...went something like this:

"Bona Festa what a joyous day

Bona Festa ....da ta da ta da..

sit back, relax, have fun. da dun (the Italian wayyy)

We're so glad you came to us to celebrate today"

The words were jumbled because we were so used to having it presented to us by the Olive Garden singers, but the tune and rhythm were right on par. Funny, that we both instantaneously decided to sing and clap for ourselves in celebration of our lives together.

"And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count.
It's the life in your years."
-Abraham Lincoln

2010-06-13T21:11:00.001-04:00

The Family Connection brought the community together to enjoy a day filled with games, activities, and music! The purpose of the event was to gather together to support families with children who have Special Needs and to celebrate them.

Bryann and I enjoyed leading everyone during the Electric Slide community dance. She leads with her warm smile and enthusiasm. Her love for music and dance is contagious!

I was able to play a sing-a-long set for the community gathering with my friend, Dan, who played the jembay. What a wonderful way to spend a Saturday, even though the heat was unbearable for most of the time!

Connecting with the community of families with children who are apart of the Family Connection program has been an inspirational experience for Bryann and I. We are so excited about offering Kindermusik classes to these families. Most of these families will experience a Kindermusik class for the first time beginning this Fall!

There is more to come, so stay tuned!

"Our life is composed greatly from dreams, from the unconscious, and they must be brought into connection with action. They must be woven together." -Anais Nin

Week # 13

2010-04-28T13:25:00.000-04:00

Beginning and ending each class in a similar way is helpful to instill routine in the children's daily lives. This is one big reason why we sing the ABC Music & Me 'Hello Song' at the beginning of every class.

Passing out the scarves is sometimes tricky business in an ABC Music & Me class.Allowing the children to ask for a certain color gives them the opportunity to be unique and independent. Although, we do not always allow them to have their way. There are times when we will simply say "You get what you get and you won't pitch a fit" :-)

Bryann carefully instructs the children to play the "high" and "low" notes on the keyboard and incorporating their "high" and "low" voices as they play.

Even the teachers get a turn sometimes, by the demand of the children. :-)

Sometimes, Bryann tells the children to close their eyes and wait for their "surprise" -each get a colorful scarf to wave as we gather for our circle dance! And sometimes, the children are unhappy with their colors. Bryann simply reminds them to "be happy with what you get..and please don't pitch a fit..." or to "please trade with someone if they wish to trade!"

Taking time to sing a silly song or hear each other sing individually is something so special to us.

"I don't sing because I'm happy; I'm happy because I sing."
-William James

"The only thing better than singing is more singing."
Ella Fitzgerald

Taking attendance before each class is another important part of being a Kindermusik teacher. Each week, Bryann diligently gathers the children from the playground and leads them into class, taking careful note of who is absent and present.

"What we hope ever to do with ease, we must learn first to do with diligence."
Samuel Johnson

Kindermusik's Inspirational Educator Of the Year

2010-04-28T11:48:00.000-04:00

Kindermusik’s Inspirational Educator of the Year

Posted by Kindermusik International | Filed under children, development, kindermusik, educators, music,

Posted April 26, 2010

Last week Kindermusik International announced our list of “Maestro” educators for 2010-2011. These are the educators with the largest programs, our masterful teachers, and those doing significant outreach work in their communities. Our Maestros are a special group, and we couldn’t be more proud of them.

As well, we announced our Inspirational Educator of the Year. This year’s recipient of the award was educator Ally Trotter from Columbia, South Carolina. Ally has captured our heart with her incredible passion. Just as inspiring as Ally herself is Bryann Burgess, who Ally has taken under her wing to mentor. Ally writes of her mentorship with Bryann:

This movement began the summer of 2009, as a partnership with Kindermusik By Ally and USC's newly founded Carolina Life program. This partnership has united Carolina Life with Kindermusik by Ally, and is making all the difference in finding the stepping stones to making Bryann's dream of becoming a music teacher a reality.

Visit Ally and Bryann’s blog, Notable Accomplishments. We dare you to not be inspired by it! Trust us, it’s impossible.

Bryann had one of the most noble dreams we can think of – to teach music. Ally is helping her reach that dream. Thanks to Ally. Thanks to Bryann. Thanks to all our educators around the world who are helping make this world a better place.

You can learn more about Ally’s Kindermusik program, Kindermusik by Ally.

Week # 12 ABC Music & Me

2010-04-24T12:21:00.000-04:00

The piano component for ABC music and Me 4-6 is especially exciting to teach. On week 12 of the Spring Semester, we practiced introducing the activity before class. Our theme for the day was "high" and "low" which was our ticket to apply our singing voices to accompany the "high" and "low" keys on the keyboard. (the roll up pianos are a hit!)

In this clip, you will see Bryann leading one of our students in the activity. Notice how she also allows time for the student to also explore on her own.

Play Group (Continued)

2010-04-23T18:46:00.000-04:00

A special thanks to Kindermusik Director Helen Peterson for posting such a great instructional video on Dover's Dream on the Cafe. This circle dance was perfect for this group and everyone really enjoyed being apart of it!

Parental involvement is such a special element in a Kindermusik class. And I think the parents in this demo were able to witness the value of being together in a class with other children, making music and memories together.

Play Group Demo at Family Connection

2010-04-22T21:39:00.000-04:00

We were invited to be apart of a Play Group at the Family Connection, which is a wonderful organization that provides a network of support and a variety events for special needs children. www.familyconnectionsc.org

Everyone enjoyed making music together during our Village Demo.

SC Hopes and Dreams Conference 2010

2010-04-22T16:57:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone,

On March 20th, 2010 Bryann and I volunteered for the Annual Hopes and Dreams Conference for South Carolina families with children who have special needs. What an experience it was to reach out to the children and their siblings who are apart of this program. We enjoyed a memorable time with the children as we led them in some fun Kindermusik activities during while their parents were attending the conference.

Everyone enjoyed time with the giant parachute. -always a big hit!
We all joined in for a circle dance to 'Wheels on the Bus' and even played "popcorn" with balls, balloons and even some of the light weight musical instruments.

Making Memories with the children singing a familiar tune with the guitar.

This is a model of the Family Time classroom as we included all ages and their caregivers (in this case, volunteers)

During the clip below, you will see us all singing joyfully to 'Old McDonald'. Watch the little boy in the yellow and blue stripped shirt. You will notice that he comes up to me and feels comfortable enough to sit right by my side and strum to the beat of the song.

What an extraordinary moment...a child enjoying the moments of a Kindermusik class, feeling completely uninhibited to make music with us in his own very special way. To encourage this type of reaction is true for ALL educators of all class sizes and all students, not just special needs classrooms.

As Kindermusik educators, our goal is to encourage the children to make music in their own way and in their own time. The benefits seen from this principle are remarkable, especially in a classroom dynamic such as this demo.

Music is indeed heard, felt and expressed by ALL.

A Magical Introduction

2010-03-05T15:34:00.001-05:00

Oftentimes, we as educators can forget to intertwine a magical viewpoint into our teaching for our students. In this clip, you will observe Bryann as she brings the magic back into the classroom during her activity introduction. Notice how the children are quietly keeping their attention and focus, waiting patiently for what's next.

When we continue to keep the class fun and inviting, the children are able to learn so much more because it creates a fun learning atmosphere for both child and educator.

Even if it is incorporating an element as simple as taking the time to creatively introduce the next activity, we find that attitude to be invaluable in the classroom.

Enjoy!

What does music Do?

2010-02-19T15:06:00.000-05:00

"Music washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life."
-Red Auerbach

"I think music in itself is healing. It's an explosive expression of humanity. It's something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we're from, everyone loves music." - Billy Joel

Kinderusik's Literature
BOOKS!

Good children's literature appeals not only to
the child in the adult, but to the adult in the child.
~ Anonymous ~

Welcome Spring 2010!

2010-01-25T21:41:00.000-05:00

We had a two lovely groups today at one of our favorite schools...A few new students as well, which is always wonderful because it adds a freshness to the class. And LOTS of new creativity!

So much fun with the castanets!
We giggled nearly the whole time! What fun!
We are making lasting impressions, memories and most of all, a difference in the lives of these children and their families. It's a wonderful feeling, to be apart of something so special and life changing!

More to come!

Week # 13 Welcome Back/Finishing of the Fall Semester

2010-01-20T20:58:00.001-05:00

Bryann assisted me by showing the cards of 'Legato' and 'Staccato' to the children as we learned about long notes and short notes from the Hosted CD. One of our Kindermusik parents happened to come in for a sneak peek of the class and was able to observe and enjoy our time together.

During our circle time,
we could feel everyone's excitement
to be back in Kindermusik again
after the long holiday season.

And of course, we also felt good to be back together, and in the swing of things.

Stay Tuned for Spring Semester...!

Week # 12 Harmony Merry Christmas! (last week before break)

2010-01-05T00:39:00.000-05:00

~ In every art beginners must start with models of those who have practiced the same art before them. And it is not only a matter of looking at the drawings, paintings, musical compositions, and poems that have been and are being created; it is a matter of being drawn into the individual work of art, of realizing that it has been made by a real human being, and trying to discover the secret of its creation. ~

Ruth Witman

Week # 11 St M

2010-01-05T00:28:00.001-05:00

Bryann prepares to lead the children in a few activities...

In the picture above, she is redirecting the children to listen to the activity on the guided CD.
The children always enjoy their musical story time... especially when Bryann reads to them.

Here, Bryann takes time to pause the CD with the remote and uses this opportunity to *freeze* with the children. This is a great moment of re-direction for both teacher and each student.
Taking a moment to breathe and talk about the class...

Timely Tips for Teaching:
*Find another way to get the children to sit on their music spots other than "Sit on your music spot, please" (over and over and over)

*Pretend the music spot is magical. Talk about it like it's a good place to sit (adjust tone of voice to be happy when you talk about it)

*Encourage listening by giving them listening ears (pretend to hand them out!)

* Allow them to explore their instruments before each activity

*Don't be afraid to pause the CD before or during an activity to regroup

"A teacher who can arouse a feeling for one single good action, for one single good poem, accomplishes more than he who fills our memory with rows and rows of natural objects, classified with name and form." -- Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Week # 11 One on One

2010-01-05T00:21:00.001-05:00

Today, Bryann taught from "Around the Farm" lesson 3-4 hosted CD, for me, in preparation for teaching it on her own for the following day at St M. She taught the entire lesson without looking at the teacher's guide for reference for each activity.

Bryann verbally encouraged the "imaginary students" and sang with each of them. I observed her from afar, and took a seat, sitting outside of the circle. Her theatrical ability really shines through during our practice time. (in class as well!) She has no problem with acting!

She showed lots of excitement while practice teaching, today. She is loosening up more and learning to have fun as a teacher and with the children.

I also noted that Bryann's transitions are much easier and smoother when using the guided hosted CD. There's something to that!

Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn." -- Benjamin Franklin

Week #11 Harmony Getting Ready for Christmas!

2010-01-05T00:15:00.000-05:00

The greatest sign of a success for a teacher...is to be able to say, "The children are now working as if I did not exist." -- Maria Montessori

Week #10 Harmony and St M

2010-01-04T23:43:00.001-05:00

This week at St M, we used the hosted CD for Around the Farm 1-2 unit. Bryann assisted me in class while I took three children to the restroom. Bryann still came to class on time and participated even though she wasn't feeling too well physically.

After class, we talked about disciplining with a firm voice, which enforces firm re-direction to their attention. And finally, backing our words up in a gentle way, reassuring them that we still love them, but they must obey the rules.
---------------------------
"The great end of education is to discipline rather than to furnish the mind; to train it to the use of its own powers rather than to fill it with the accumulation of others." -- Tyron Edwards

Redirection:
Ex "Michael, put the green car in your pocket or give it to me. You have a choice."
(use a firm voice and expect an immediate result)

Ex: "I know you want to play with your car right now, but thank you for putting it in your pocket for safe keeping"
(redirect him and show empathy in your tone of voice, body language and words)

Ex: "Henry did you know I brought some other wonderful instruments to play with?"
(focus on the positive aspect and redirect in that way.)

On Monday, we had fun at Harmony with all of the children. At the end of class, they taught a song they had been learning about Indians and Pilgrams. We ended up creating a circle dance as we sang the words to the new song.

"Learning is finding out what we already know. Doing is demonstrating that you know it. Teaching is reminding others that they know just as well as you. You are all learners, doers, and teachers." -- Richard Bach

Week # 10 Training One on One/Bryann's First Guitar lesson

2010-01-04T23:32:00.000-05:00

" Sometimes you want to give up guitar, you'll hate the guitar. But if you stick with it,you're gonna be rewarded"
-- Jimi Hendrix

Week # 9 St. M/ Lessons We Learn

2010-01-04T23:25:00.000-05:00

We all take time to sing hello to each other at the beginning of each class together.
We use props and instruments to create a steady beat which is helpful for children as they learn to "feel" the music.
Dancing is always a fun component during class time and gives the children an opportunity to express themselves through movement and music play.
Here we are, discussing the many dynamics that took place during this week's class.
It's rained nearly every Wednesday this month and the children are high with pent up energy. But, we are plugging along and still having fun. I'm convinced that sometimes we have these days to really zero in on how to handle certain situations. So, I will list a few of them below:

*How to handle the children when they scream and forget to use their inside voices
*How to handle a child getting upset because his feelings are hurt or he doesn't get his way
*Dealing with hurt feelings as teachers if the children decide to say something or do something to make us feel bad ex "I don't want to sit by you."

We realize that the children are indeed delicate and so are their emotions, but it is our job to guide them along with care.

Children require guidance and sympathy far more than instruction.

-Annie Sullivan

Week #9 Training One on One

2010-01-04T23:16:00.001-05:00

This week's one on one training went really well as you can see. We took this week to review and practice teaching with the hosted CD. Which means that there is a lady on the CD that guides each activity. It essentially guides the class along and is fairly easy to follow if you have all the instruments and props needed to conduct the class.

We enjoyed dancing to Kindermusik's bluegrass song, "Sourwood Mountain". What better way to spend our time than dancing to a bluegrass fiddle?

"There are short-cuts to happiness, and dancing is one of them."
~Vicki Baum

Week #8 Training One on One

2010-01-04T23:01:00.000-05:00

This week, we worked more with the manual and actually reading through an entire lesson. We acted out one of the lessons with the guided CD. I wanted Bryann to know that it is possible to pick and choose which activities that may best fit a specific group of children vs. following the manual straight through.

Even though it is good to know how to teach from the manual, sometimes the art of being flexible during each moment of teaching is key to masterful leading in a group. Sometimes the flow of activities may change last minute depending on the group's energy level. And a good teacher will know and recognize the need for a change of pace if the situation arises.

Week # 7 A Big Notable Accomplishment/Teaching an entire lesson

2010-01-04T18:39:00.000-05:00

At the end of this very special class, was a very special someone who believed in her from the beginning. Dr. Kathleen Marshall was able to witness Bryann teach her very first class with me.

After class, we took a moment to stand in awe of what had just been accomplished, and only after 6 weeks of training with me. Bryann took charge and displayed so much courage as she directed the half hour class. Well done!

Bryann's professor, Kathleen Marshall, was also there to share in the unexpected joy of her progress.

The support meant the world to us!

Here are some moments captured during her time of teaching that day.
This is a day filled with moments that will be treasured, and never forgotten.

The note card was a handy tool for Bryann to use during class as a helpful guide for transitioning to each activity.

....MORE to come!

Week #7 One on One Training

2010-01-04T18:10:00.000-05:00

One of the most outstanding characteristics Bryann has is the courage to "go with the flow". And it convenient for me because that seems to be the way I work best. So, this week for our one on one time, I was especially blown away.

I spontaneously decided to create a note card with the activities listed below to give to Bryann as a guide for teaching. I thought it would be great to give her the opportunity to be the teacher for our entire training session. I, of course, would have the great pleasure of being the student. She jumped at the opportunity and taught me, as I played the role of "Sally" the student, for a full 30 minutes!!

It's also important to remember during this study, that today's teaching was with the note card alone and not with the hosted CD. Bryann will experience teaching with both styles this semester. But for today and tomorrow, she will use the notecard, which lists the name of the activities in order with which instrument to use beside the activity. Each activity also has a track number next to it for easy access to each song on the CD.

Originally, I had decided to try to go over as much of "Carnival of Music" for ages 2-4 as I could with Bryann. Then, we would pick some activities for her to lead on her own for tomorrows class. I hoped for her to lead the children in at least 4 or 5 activities since this week is a review week and we had been over most of the same material.

I sure have a different picture of what she is capable of. I think I'm going to let her teach the entire review class tomorrow. Stay tuned!~

"Creativity comes from looking for the unexpected and stepping outside your own experience."
~ Masaru Ibuka

2010-01-04T17:47:00.000-05:00

During class today, Bryann matched pitches with some of the students. Since it was a big class, I took half of the students, and she took the other half.

She also helped me lead the "hello song" which is different from other classes because this is for the 4-6 age group.

She reminded the children about the class rules, ie, time out, no hitting or running, inside voices

She took charge and gave assistance to a child by helping her put her shoes on at the end of class.

Bryann also controlled the remote control for me during class which was a big help to me, but it also helped her in knowing when to hit "pause" and "play". This especially comes in handy when the children need redirection.

The goal for today was to help ease Bryann's mind about the technicalities of teaching. I don't want her so bogged down by the "manual" that she forgets how to ease into her teaching time with the children and still have fun.

There is plenty of time to fine tune each skill, but for now, we are keeping it simple with this class. And by doing so, a fun, non-competitive, no pressure environment is created which is maximizing the foundation for learning not only for our students, but for Bryann, as a teacher.

"Play is a major avenue for learning to manage anxiety. It gives the child a safe space where she can experiment at will, suspending the rules and constraints to physical and social reality. In play, the child becomes master rather than subject....Play allows the child to transcend passivity and to become the active doer of what happens around her."

--Alicia F. Lieberman, author, The Emotional Life--
of the Toddler

Buddy Walk 2009

2010-01-04T16:54:00.001-05:00

Cocky even joined in on the Buddy Walk with everyone. We made sure to stop and take a picture with him!

Bryann was a shining light of hope to all of those around here at the Buddy Walk 2009 as she stood up there bravely to sing the National Anthem all by her self. And what a terrific job she did!

"Do one thing every day that scares you."

~ Eleanor Roosevelt

Life is one grand, sweet song, so start the music. ~Ronald Reagan

Buddy Walk 2009

2010-01-04T16:54:00.000-05:00

Bryann was a shining light of hope to all of those around here at the Buddy Walk 2009 as she stood up there

Week #6 Training-One on One

2010-01-04T11:58:00.000-05:00

Our training time together is still once a week and we work on fine
tuning teaching skills. We really have a lot of fun!

This week, we worked on ways to introduce a scarf dance. We get very
specific in our study. One of the main points I like to emphasize is
the fact that the activity never starts when the music begins. It always
starts with exploration of the instrument you pass out, or the words
of direction that we give to the children before we pass out the scarves,
for example.

Exploration is a key element to learning for both teacher and student. We give ample time to the children to explore their world through movement and observation of their handling the instruments before we begin any guided activity.

"It is becoming increasingly clear through research on the brain as well as in other areas of study, that childhood needs play. Play acts as a forward feed mechanism into courageous, creative, rigorous thinking in adulthood."
--Tina Bruce, Professor, London Metropoltian University

Week # 6 (the day the lights went out!)

2010-01-04T11:28:00.000-05:00

This week was a little nerve racking because the power went out during the middle of our class. Bryann handled it well, though, bud admitted to her nervousness later.

Also, Bryann was having a busy week already because she was expecting to perform her scene with a friend at USC for her Theatre class. She was just a little nervous in Kindermusik and also, a little nervous about singing the national anthem for the Buddy Walk 2009! (rightfully so!)

Even though she had a lot on her mind this week, she still pushed through with Kindermusik, remained faithful to come to class on time and student teach with me.

Two concerns this week for S. M's:
How to handle the class if the lights go out
How to keep the children from crowding around as we pass out instruments

We went over simple techniques to handle each of these issues. Let's face it, if we aren't exposed to awkward situations, then we aren't as prepared on how to handle the when they arise. So, we remain thankful for the challenges that prepare us for who we need to be now and in the future.

And I'll end with that! More on Bryann's upcoming performance... singing the national anthem!

Week # 5 Matching PItches

2009-10-16T00:03:00.001-04:00

Notice how Bryann engages each child while matching pitches. Many of the children were a little restless, especially since it had been raining all week. But, Bryann still maintained a calm attitude which is important to the children. And even though she

A job well done!

Hello Song Week # 5

2009-10-15T23:21:00.000-04:00

This week, Bryann led 3 activities during class, including the hello song, matching pitches, and a circle dance with the scarves. This clip is the hello song. Notice how Bryann introduces the hello song and encourages the children to participate with hand motions and singing.

A slideshow of Week # 5

2009-10-14T20:41:00.001-04:00

A slide show of Wednesday's class and this week's behind the scenes training with Bryann. Enjoy!

In class and behind the scenes: Week #5

2009-10-14T19:18:00.000-04:00

What Bryann thinks of the progress we've made so far.

2009-10-13T17:39:00.001-04:00

Week #5,

During our time together today, we had fun talking about the progress we've made during the time we've been together over the past few weeks. Bryann continues to share her passion for teaching and learning with me and the children as we continue with her internship.

We spent some time preparing a few activities for her to lead on her own for tomorrow's class. More to come...

Bryann's first Harmony Class 10/12/09

2009-10-12T17:06:00.000-04:00

Yet another rainy day, but the children enjoyed singing songs like
"Down by the Bay" and "Engine 409." The children even came up with
their own verses of Down By the bay. One of the children actually
added her own clever twist and sang "Have you ever seen a yoga mat,
rolling up itself... down by the bay!!"

One neat moment of this class was Bryann's idea of saying "Lions and
Tigers and Bears oh My" with the children. I took the opportunity to
create a circle march for them while we searched for lions, tigers,
and bears. The children loved following Bryann and as they tapped the
rhythm out on their knees while chanting.

What a great beginning to week # 5!

Week #4 Welcome Back, Miss Bryann!

2009-10-07T11:37:00.000-04:00

Today was a rainy morning as Bryann and I ventured out to visit the
children at St. Michael's. Since it had been raining
for a few days now, I was anticipating a high energy class.

And we could definitely tell that there energy was very high, but that
didn't stop us from having a fun time inside!! Here
are a few snapshots of just a few of the activities we did in class
today. Enjoy!
-----

The children love to follow Miss Bryann during our circle dance time.
This week, we lined up together to march and
play along to a song about trains. The children loved making the sound
of the train with their voices and the shakers.

St. Michael's Week 3: "We miss you, Miss Bryann!!"

2009-09-30T10:36:00.000-04:00

More Pictures of Week 2 @ St. Michael's

2009-09-29T20:19:00.000-04:00

A "1,2,3,4 let's all do this some more" moment.

"Scarves away, scarves away... gently put the scarves away"

Bryann picked an appropriate time to use the "Magic Finger up High" trick technique.

"Magic Fingers up high, Magic Fingers down low"

The children all waited patiently for Miss Bryann to use her beautiful singing voice to match pitches with them.

Week 2 Achievements Recap

2009-09-29T20:07:00.000-04:00

Bryann's Notable Accomplishments:

She matched pitches with the children during hello and goodbye time
(even though she is still learning names!)

She gave assistance to children numerous times during class.
(especially Katie)

She volunteered to take children one by one to the bathroom as needed. (without my prompting!!! ---she is brave!!) Bryann overcame her fear and took 3 children to the restroom by herself, assisting them in hand washing, drying and coming back to the circle. This was a big help to me.

She helped lead a circle dance with and without the scarves

She passed out the rhythm sticks and collected them (some of the children even tried to get more than 2, but Bryann wouldn't allow it!) --good job!

Week 2 (continued)

2009-09-29T18:54:00.000-04:00

Somebody took THREE rhythm sticks.... And it
was Grayson. :) Bryann Handled the situation
beautifully...

She caught on right away, making sure he had the right amount of rhythm sticks to play with. In our training session, we worked on the same scenario and discussed this exact situation. Practical. Yet, hands on learning is taking place here, for both teacher and student.

Here is Bryann, guiding Katie to form a line with the other children.
(on her own, without my prompting)

Carnival Parade Circle March
(Bryann does a great job with this activity)

Finally, I wish there was a picture I could have snapped of Bryann's face when she told me,
"I got it." This was after she bravely and assertively responded to a child by taking his hand, leading to the restroom, and guiding him through the steps, even down to washing and drying hands!

I followed her out to the hallway just to be sure, remembering how apprehensive she was to even the IDEA of it. That's when she turned to me and said "I got it. I'm good"

I often believe that obstacles are there for us to simply overcome and feel good about our achievements. Ironically, we had just talked about how scared she was about taking a child to the potty. I later asked her what came over her and she replied, "I thought about my confidence."

Bryann took THREE children to the bathroom that day, which was a great help to me.

Week 1 and 2 Pictures

2009-09-29T18:35:00.000-04:00

First Kindermusik Class @ St. Michael's: Week 1

In these pictures, Bryann is assisting Katie, who is new to Kindermusik and younger than some of the other children. Bryann initiated helping Katie on her own, without prompting.

During class, I asked Bryann to pass out the sticks to the children. She bravely did this on her own!

Most of the children took 2 sticks......

.... Exploring different ways to play with the rhythm sticks...

Bryann confidently placed the lid on the box after passing out the rhythm sticks, maintaining control as we previously worked on in our training session.

Here we are, playing our rhythm sticks to the beat of the Carnival music.

Week 2 Journal Entry: Training @ Forest Lake

2009-09-29T17:58:00.000-04:00

September 22, 2009

My Goals for Bryann this week:
For Bryann to lead a circle dance with scarves
Lead the hello song/matching pitches w/ each child

Focus: Giving positive reinforcement/verbal encouragement to the children during activities done in class.

During this training session, we worked on many aspects of teaching. We sang the hello and goodbye song together, worked on matching pitches as before, we talked about the importance of time out, and talking children to the bathroom.

One issue that Bryann was hesitant and nervous about was discipline. "What if they don't listen to me, or do what I tell them to do?" And this is a very valid issue, I believe, for any teacher who is starting out.

I addressed these issues in the following ways, beginning with simply finding ways to attain their attention. Once we get the child's attention, then we can re-direct. We talked about how those two aspects follow hand in hand and how to react in certain situations.

I. Discipline
   A. Step 1: Getting their Attention
      1. Physically getting down on the child's level, engaging in eye contact, hand on shoulder
        2. Turning off the lights and counting to 3
        3. "Magic Fingers up High, Magic Fingers down low"
        4. "Put your hands in your lap"

   B. Step 2: Redirecting their behavior
        1. "Instead of running, let's use our walking (running, skipping, jumping, dancing) feet. Can
              you show me your dancing feet?"
        2. "Instead of screaming, let's use our inside voices. Can you whisper like me?"
        3. "Instead of hitting, can we give each other a hug?"

We acted out most of these ideas, roll playing me as the teacher, then her as the student. And even incorporated some imaginary students as well into the mixture.

We worked on different ways to pass out the rhythm sticks, followed by introducing the song or activity. We also switched back and forth, me being the student, her being the teacher--and ended up being quite hilarious. But, it's a very good learning technique and I'm sticking to it!

I asked Bryann if she felt comfortable in assisting/ supervising the children in the bathroom one at a time. She greatly hesitated and wasn't too wild about the idea. She was also a little apprehensive about the children getting out of control in the class. Both of these are very good issues to be able to have talked about with her and all the more to overcome them.

I reminded her of the "life's a dance" country song, and how it's exactly the same way with teaching. Sometimes you lead the children, and sometimes you follow their lead.

"Life's a dance you learn as you go
Sometimes you lead, sometimes you follow
Don't worry about what you don't know
Life's a dance. You learn as you go"

I encouraged her to have courage, and step out... and that's exactly what happens in Week 2 of our
St. Michael's application class.... to be continued...

Week 1-Application class @ St. Michaels, Wednesday 9:00-10:30

2009-09-29T17:35:00.000-04:00

September 16th, 2009

Today was our time to apply what we had gone over in our first one on one training session, which was yesterday. I am happy to say that our first day went very well at St. Michaels. We are working on classroom set up and positive, verbal encouragement with the kids as we do each activity.

I found that Bryann just jumped right into introducing herself to the children. She got down on their level, bending down and greeting them.During class, she actively participated in every activity and was a great role model to the children.

Bryann encouraged the children to have fun and participate by being an excellent, participating role model for the children. I was also very impressed with how she verbally addressed the group, on her own, during a circle dance, by saying "Good job, everyone! And remember to have fun!"

And even though we had to take the children to the bathroom during the middle of the class, Bryann helped me in the hallway by singing songs with the children. They loved it! (We give extra time tacked onto the end of the class if we have to take a potty break for the children.)

I am happy with our beginnings this week.

Week 1- Journal Entry: Training @ Forest Lake 1:00-2:30

2009-09-29T17:24:00.000-04:00

September 15th, 2009

We discussed classroom set up, clean up and put away. I found out she is highly allergic to Lysol spray, which I depend on all the time to clean the air and my instruments. I think I'm going to switch to Clorox anytime surface spray for her benefit.

We went over the "hello" song and roll played scenarios of children sitting in the circle with us, singing hello and asserting different responses. We discussed how to sing hello by matching pitches back and forth together.

We talked about problem solving. For example, time out issues--when and how to send a child to time out. Bryann seemed a little concerned and even sad that we would even have to send a child to time out. I assured her that time out isn't a bad thing, but necessary for re-direction for each child as needed.

We played with the scarves and Bryann and I roll played me being the teacher, then her being the student, and vise versa. --worked well. We went over how to give verbal encouragement to each individual child during an activity, particularly a scarf circle dance.

Bryann clearly has a love for teaching and for children. Her very warm and inviting attitude was readily welcomed by he children on her first day.