Welcome autumn!
What a vibrant, dynamic, full hearted, creative month September was, with much harvesting and canning, wonderful guests sharing their gifts, new kittens scampering around, and Lila Centre starting up its offerings of vocal and nature programs. I've so enjoyed welcoming back everyone as well as meeting new families and making new friends.
I also journeyed to Seattle to experience the healing power of community singing and ceremony. It lifted my spirits so much, and reminded me as to why I do what I do. With that in mind, I am excited to share that we will be bringing back the much loved Parent and Child Music Program this October, after a 5 year hiatus. This Waldorf inspired program previously ran for 14 years and a lot of past participants found it was a great way for them to connect regularly with other parents, and many of the now grown children say they still remember the songs that we all sang together. It just feels right to start again. Here's an excerpt from my blog which explains what it is all about:
"There are many benefits for parents and young children playing together. A big one is the creating of meaningful experiences, whilst building up resources for parents to take home and use with their young ones. During our time together, the sacred wonder of childhood is honoured through imagination, creativity, music and sharing, all while modelling healthy ways of being together.
We weave our music and song time by singing certain songs when we start and finish activities. Instead of explaining, we simply sing the “snack” song and everyone knows what to do. This is the process by which we drop into a place of wonderment, where time flows, rather than being highly monitored. We are also careful not to spend time correcting a child’s singing, as it isn’t a lesson, but more of a exercise in imitation, where every voice is welcomed. There is no pressure to sing if a child doesn’t wish to. Every child is unique and honoured. This is a very safe circle for neural diversity.
Our shared time will include stories and songs, games, exploring outside and gathering around the fire, plus hand crafts with natural fibres such as wool, cattail and willow. Children will also have plenty of time to play with other kids. Nature time is experienced as a way of life rather than a novelty. We often use puppets during storytelling, so a parent can also incorporate this very imaginative tool at home when teaching a value, or life lesson.
These classes help provide some much needed calm our children need for their often overactive brains. Slowing down and focusing on an activity with a parent supporting, gives them a chance to breathe easier and let the program's gentle rhythmic structure work its magic".
I look forward to these very rich fall programs continuing and connecting with you all this fall. If you are curious about the Parent Child program, read on to learn more about our open house where we will come together and show you and your little ones, what it's all about.
Blessings,
Cari
