Research has continuously proven that PLAY is the most important factor in learning and development of skills for our little ones; what better way to play than through music? Playing music encourages growth in musical, physical, emotional, social, and communicative areas through the whole developmental spectrum.





Here’s an example song that demonstrates this concept!





I Know a Chicken by Laurie Berkner





If you haven’t heard of Laurie Berkner, I highly recommend you check out her YouTube channel . She has a huge collection of songs and activities for children that are an excellent resource for parents, teachers, and music therapists alike. Her song “I Know a Chicken” is one that I use in my preschool sessions all the time. All you need are some egg shakers! This song is amazing for direction following, choice making, and gross motor skills. It also introduces them to basic musical concepts (start/stop, fast/slow, simple melodies and rhythms, call and response). Giving them choices in how to shake the egg is an opportunity for each child to be a leader. This song is also incredibly versatile and allows you to work on other concepts, such as colors (now shake the RED egg), shapes (now shake them in a CIRCLE), etc. There’s so many opportunities for learning in just this one song!



