How long are the classes?
Music Together®, It Takes A Village and Ni Hao, Mei Mei are "parent & me" classes that are 45 minutes long. Music Together Preschool and It Takes A Village Preschool classes are between 30-45 minutes long.
Why aren’t there separate classes for different age groups of Music Together and Ni Hao, Mei Mei?
In each class we strive to create a musically rich, developmentally-appropriate environment where the whole family can enjoy music and nurture skills at the level right for each child. Mixed-age classes provide a rich learning environment because children of different ages thrive when they interact with each other: the younger children are often fascinated by the older child, and the “big” children enjoy helping and sharing with the “little” ones. This approach is based on research from music education, early childhood development, and family relationships, as well as our 20 years experience in the field.
When will I receive confirmation of class enrollment?
Confirmation emails are sent once the class has met minimum enrollment. If the class has not met minimum enrollment, you will be notified of placement in your second choice.
What is the make-up policy?
Families are allowed three makeups per semester. Makeups for each program are available at any location run by The Kujeji School. Make-ups can be carried over if you miss the last two classes of any session.
What is the cancellation policy?
You may cancel your enrollment and receive a refund less a $25 cancellation fee any time PRIOR to the start of the semester No refunds after the first day of classes. Non-attendance does not constitute a cancellation.
What if I start classes after the semester begins?
We accept enrollment during the first three weeks of classes, but we do not prorate for classes missed due to late registration. However, families do receive three makeup classes per semester.
Can we eat in class?
Feel free to nurse or bottle-feed your child in class, but please do not bring other food or drink into classrooms. Non-spill sippy cups may be used in the classroom, but please use them away from the activities, to avoid inspiring other children to take sips from your child's cup. Please respect the fact that a few of the children have severe food allergies which can be triggered simply by the presence of certain foods in the room.
Who can come to class?
Parents, grandparents or caregivers are welcome to attend the class at any time – no need to ask. Preschoolers may want to contact the school for space limitations. If your older child has a school holiday feel free to bring him or her to class. Whole family music making is extremely valuable to your child's musical development and we love it when more than one family member can join the fun.
What is my role in class?
Children are biologically "wired" to respond most to those with whom they have close bonds. So your fun role is to sing, dance and be silly! Your active participation is the key to your children learning and growing musically. Support the creation of a "music only" environment by not talking to your children or other adults during the 45 minutes. It is difficult for a young child to ignore adult conversation, so please wait to socialize after class. Refrain from giving verbal or manipulative directions, such as "Bang the drum” or holding your child's hand and hitting the drum for them, even suggesting a color for them to use can affect creativity. Children respond best by just seeing and hearing you doing (and enjoying) it yourself! Wandering toddlers are fine, but If you want your child to come back to you, avoid calling to him from across the room. If necessary, redirect your child physically back to you or the circle. Of course watch out for your child’s safety, but mostly your job is to just relax, and have fun!
How should we use the materials?
Play CDs at home and in the car as often as possible, especially during the first few weeks of class. Make it available to your child to listen to while she is playing or before nap or bedtime. For Music Together families, use songbooks to help you remember the songs or to play along if you play an instrument. Try using the songbook at storytime instead of a regular book, and sing through the songs as you go along. Looking at the printed notes on the page will help children understand that music is something that can be read, like words. Familiarization with notation will help them when they are more ready for formal music instruction. For It Takes a Village families, look at a map or globe and discuss the country your child experienced in class. Research the current state of the country,:go to a museum to expand the art experience. For Ni Hao, Mei Mei families, take a trip to Chinatown, even when traveling in another country! Watch Chinese television, discover the many various Chinese cuisines, Introduce yourselves to the over sixty Chinese ethnic groups. Most of all, have fun!
