Spotlight:
Art & Music
One of the privileges of homeschooling is that, as par- ent-teachers, we can establish the learning environ- ment for our children. We have the liberty to include
as much art and music as we desire in our homeschools. There
are many ways we can foster an appreciation for the arts in our
children.
Play classical music in the background during study times.
Research shows that students who listen to good quality music
while doing school work retain more information and score
better on tests. Listen to music during mealtimes and analyze
different elements of the compositions together as a family.
When you travel, or run errands, play favorite CDs and sing
together to help your children learn songs and hymns. Most
children memorize quickly with a little repetition.
Plan a family trip to a symphony or chamber orchestra concert. If ticket prices are too high for your family’s budget, contact the venue to see if it is possible to attend a “dress rehearsal”
of the orchestra. Some groups allow students to attend such
events for free. They often prove to be more entertaining than
a formal concert, since the conductor periodically stops the
music in the middle of a movement to make a correction, and
jokes with the musicians.
Many towns offer free weekly “concerts in the park” in the
summer, or a monthly concert series with visiting musicians
during the other seasons. You could also attend a recital of
homeschoolers in your area who are taking private instrument
lessons---they love to have an audience, and your child might
be inspired to learn to make music, too!
Take your children to an art museum and pretend you are
judges. Let each person choose “The Best of Show” in their
opinion, and then share what they liked about the artwork.
If you don’t live near an art museum, then attend a local arts
& crafts show. You can always find several artists displaying
paintings or drawings—choose your favorites from among
their works.
Many big-city art museums offer virtual tours of their collections online—tune in as a family for a fun rainy-day activity.
See if any libraries in your area lend out artwork. Choose a wall
in your home to showcase a new piece each month for your
own in-home art show.
The following vendors will provide more ideas for incorporating music and art into your family’s life.
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