Music and language are closely coupled in my classes - and in the human brain! I use this link to develop relationships with my students while we engage in active music-making together; students enjoy sharing personal anecdotes and special news, items, and events from their lives that relate to the songs and activities. 

This impromptu sharing helps students practice their listening, speaking, turn-taking, describing, relating, and social-communication skills. And, for many students, sharing with one another, and with Mr. Darrell, is a highlight of the class! 

Educationally, getting kids comfortable with telling stories, adding detail, responding to one another, and staying on topic are important language skills that can help students better communicate and, later, understand what they read!

The focus and content of this class is developed with the help of a speech-language pathologist and reading specialist (Mr. Darrell's wife!) who specializes in child language development and literacy. 

In this class, students will:
- take turns sharing, listening, and responding in a comfortable, familiar environment

Mr. Darrell will facilitate learning and discussion by:
- encouraging listening, commenting, questioning, and responding between students
- scaffolding students' descriptive language skills 
- helping students make connections between their ideas and others' shares

Students do not need any prior experience or knowledge, but they should come prepared with something to share, show, and tell! Examples include: My new pet! Planting our spring garden! Grandmom is coming to visit! Here is my special stuffed animal!