At Kathy's Music Pittsburgh, one of the most popular games in our Kindermusik classes is one where children play stop and go.
The music plays. Children move. Everyone is having fun.
Then the music suddenly stops, and so do they. Or at least they try to stop.
Cue the giggles and smiles.
From the outside looking in, it looks like a simple game. But there is actually quite a bit happening in that moment.
Stop and go games help children practice inhibitory control, one of the executive function skills that helps us pause and think before choosing our next action. It is the skill that helps a child wait for a turn, listen to another person's idea, follow a safety direction, or stop themselves from reacting before they have thought things through.
Music provides countless opportunities to practice this skill in meaningful ways. Young children learn to start and stop with the music, listen before responding with words or actions, and take turns with others. Older students learn to wait before playing the piano, stop and solve a difficult passage on the violin, listen before speaking, and work together in an ensemble where every part has its own time and place.
The goal here is not compliance as in "stop and do what everyone else is doing."
Please read on.
When children develop the ability to pause, they create the space to become more aware of what is happening around them.
They listen more carefully.
They solve problems more effectively.
They collaborate more successfully.
They become better able to create, communicate, and make music with others.
Inhibitory control is an important life skill. Music happens to be one of the most joyful places to practice it.
Notice & Encourage: When your child pauses, listens, and makes a thoughtful choice before responding, take a moment to acknowledge it. These small moments of self-control create opportunities for learning, problem solving, and meaningful participation.
Make music part of your weekly routine. Help your child grow important life skills.
Get started today. We're here to help.
Summer Camp Update for July
July 6-9:
Ukulele Camp, McMurray, ages 5-7.
Just 2 spaces remaining.
Frozen Camp, McMurray, ages 4-6.
6 spaces open
Beauty and the Beast Singing Camp
Mt. Lebanon, ages 6-10 yrs, 2 spaces remain
July 13-16:
The Little Mermaid Musical Theatre Camp - SOLD OUT
Rapunzel Camp, Mt. Lebanon, ages 4-6
1 space remaining
July 20-23:
Arts Infusion Camp, MTL, ages 6-10 yrs, SOLD OUT
Toy Story Camp, McM, ages 4-6 yrs,
7 spaces open
July 27-31:
Finding Nemo Musical Theatre Camp - SOLD OUT
Under the Sea Camp, MTL, ages 3-5 yrs,
2 spaces remaining
Coming in August:
Arts Infusion Camp, McM, Ages 6-10 yrs
Broadway Little Stars, Ages 4-6 performing Peter Pan Medley
Spaces are available now, but they are filling quickly.
Explore Summer Camp Openings >>
Questions? We'd love to help you find the best fit for your child.
Reach our Office Team at:
info@kathysmusic.com | 412-345-5200
