NAEYC’s HELLO online forum is a great place to have conversations and create connections with peers around important early learning issues.

Excerpts from Hello have been edited for style and length.

Question

I keep hearing about the value of singing instructions and singing during transitions. I would really like to implement this. The trouble is that I’m not a good singer. I also don’t really know what this looks (or sounds) like. For those of you who do this in your classrooms, could you give me songs that you use?

—Monica, United States

Answers

Singing directions and information can help children remember and internalize lessons. I think one of the best ways teachers can impact and improve their classrooms is to think about what they really want to accomplish and/or teach. Do you want the music and singing to reinforce particular behaviors, like how to put away the blocks or the steps to follow for some skill set (like hand washing)? Repetition and a simple tune with a few words and easy rhymes are best. Do you want to gain the children’s attention and help give transitions a little fun guidance? Knowing what you want to accomplish or teach will help. Sometimes, just singing off the top of your head is wonderful! Other times, you’ll want to plan ahead and be consistent with what you sing.

—Margro, Maryland

Mentioning a child’s name in a song can get everyone’s attention and motivate the other children to get on board with whatever you’re doing. When it’s naptime, I sing, “Liza’s on her mat. Liza’s on her mat! Hooray for Liza! Liza’s on her mat!” It’s amazing how quickly the others will get on their mats so they can have their special song.

—Meredith, Colorado

Singing is something I use in my classroom every day with children and even adults. If you are an introvert or self-conscious, use props. If you feel that your voice isn’t great, then sing as “Mr. Froggy” or “Miss Muffins.” Or you can use an instrument—a simple one like a bell or triangle.

—Tracy, California

There is nothing wrong with using recorded music in your classroom! Stretch children’s ears beyond the same old tunes and try including music from other cultures and genres—from classical to jazz to country. One of my favorite ideas is reaching out to families to find music from their home cultures and inviting them to bring it into the classroom.

—Mars, Illinois

Creating sound helps children focus, feel safe, engage, and enhance active listening skills. Sound with the right approach is perfect for short, thoughtful transition games and exercises that can support and integrate with any subject or curriculum.

—Hayes, New York

Do you have questions or suggestions to share with your peers? Are you simply interested in reading different takes from early childhood educators around the country? Tap into the vibrant discussions on Hello.