My youngest and I have spent the past year enjoying a weekly class at The Musik Nest.  The Kindermusik Village class is designed for newborns to 17 months, and my daughter was 12 months old when we started.   Because she was a preemie, is very small for her age, was a late walker, and has a diagnosed language delay, this class has worked for us far beyond 17 months. At the ripe old age of two years, I can honestly say it has been one of the best things I've done for her and for us. 

The Village curriculum includes baby massage, some sign language, plenty of movement, and lots of music.  There are elements of singing, dancing, cuddling, exploring, even instrument playing - my daughter's favorite.  It's a 45-minute helping of exactly what young minds need to learn and thrive - plus the take-home materials support that learning outside of class.

Miss Rebecca creates an environment that encourages bonding between baby and caregiver, which has meant a lot to me as the mom-of-two.  Having this special time with my youngest has been important and appreciated. 

Above all, there is a body of research to support the benefit of exposing very young children to music. That research has found that babies respond to and learn from music.  Babies actually benefit from exposure to music.  I especially like this quote from the FAQ section of The Musik Nest website: "Listening to music helps to create and strengthen more neural connections in a baby’s brain because nerves that deal with the auditory system of the brain are being activated in order to hear and feel music with their entire body." 

During class, Miss Rebecca takes the time to explain some of the research behind the learning taking place, which adds a bonus parent education component to every class!  If you're interested in the science behind why babies and music get along so well, be sure to check out the Benefits of Music as explained on the Kindermusik website.

This month we have our last "baby" music class.  My little one will graduate to the Our Time curriculum for ages 17 months to 3 years.  It has been such a joy to watch her interact with other babies, respond to the music and movement, try new things, and show excitement for learning.  I have been thrilled to have her language skills supported through music, as well. I have seen my little one grow in confidence and independence, and we are excited to continue our weekly classes at The Musik Nest.

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I should also mention that The Musik Nest offers class for children from birth to age 7!  Even if your "baby" isn't really a baby anymore, I encourage you to share this kind of experience with your child.  Try a FREE class at The Musik Nest.

Now really is a great time to enroll in a class with The Musik Nest.  Miss Rebecca has made a generous offer to all Macaroni Kid subscribers. 

Mention that you heard about The Musik Nest from Macaroni Kid, and you'll receive a special discount on tuition for the Winter Session - classes start January 23rd.  (Offer valid for families new to The Musik Nest.)