Currently in our Baby Classes, known as Kindermusik Village, we are experiencing the physical and musical sensation of stopping and going. By participating in activities that move and stop, Baby is developing the awareness of inhibitory control. Inhibitory control is one’s ability to stop his body on a given cue.
Baby enjoys “stop and go” games. The element of surprise delights him at first. As he becomes familiar with the activity, he will enjoy anticipating the stops and starts, understanding the structure of the music in much the same ways as he understands spoken language prior to speaking it.
At home continue to play with “stop and go” during the day. Incorporate songs and chants from class with these stop and go adventures.
While Baby is in his swing lyrically chant “swinging, swinging, swinging....” Gentle cease swinging and say, “and stop.” Also, try to play with this change while bouncing, dancing or doing any movement Baby enjoys. You could use a push toy or toy car and help Baby “go” all around the room then playfully help him stop. Accompany the game with the song “Walk All Around” by changing the words to “Drive all around, now, drive all around...and stop.” Remember to include the sign language for stop while playing with Baby. This sign can be beneficial in communication with him as he grows into toddler hood.
Also play with the anticipation created in the pause of sound and movement in the song Go Into The Kitchen. Take an adventure through the house and “take a peek” into all the different rooms, giving Baby the opportunity to observe how each room looks while it is still and without bustle.
