The Preschooler

Name That Tune

When we think about what children learn in kindergarten, we often picture reciting the ABC’s, writing numbers, and coloring with vividly colored crayons.  The vitally important skill of listening is often overlooked.  Listening skills can and should be practiced even before children go to kindergarten.  Instead of just hearing what a teacher says, children need to be able to interpret and process the information as well.  Here is an activity you can do with your child to help him or her practice listening with a purpose.

Using a simple CD player and some of your child’s favorite tunes, have your child listen as you play a short section of an easily identifiable song.  Ask your child what song you have played.  If he gets it correct, congratulate him and let him listen to a little bit more of the song to confirm his answer.  If he gets it incorrect, play  a little bit more of the song until he answers correctly.  After you have played this game several times, you can begin to shorten the amount of time you initially play each song.

This activity is both fun for your child and educational.  It will help her learn how to focus on what she is listening to and process it as well.

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Written by BRWI Staff on June 10, 2009