Why aren’t there separate classes for different age groups of Music Together?

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 welcome to three make-up classes per semester, available at any location run by Valley Cat Music, space permitting. Make-ups cannot be carried over to future sessions and are non-transferrable.

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 because families receive three makeup classes per semester.

Can we eat in class?

Valley Cat Music fully supports breastfeeding mothers, so feel free to nurse (or bottle-feed) your child in class, but please do not bring any other food or drink into classrooms. Some children have severe food allergies that can be triggered simply by the presence of certain foods in the room, and beverage containers (parents' coffee cup, bottled water, sippy cup, etc.) are simply not safe from being either knocked over or experimented with by curious hands and mouths! Better to save them for after class. 

Who can come to class?

Parents, grandparents, or caregivers are welcome to attend the class at any time—no need to ask. (Preschoolers program participants may want to contact their school for space limitations.) If your older child has a school holiday, feel free to bring him or her to class for free once during the session (a $10 per-child fee will apply for each subsequent 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 (if you need to communicate, try singing it!). It is difficult for a young child to ignore adult conversation, so please wait until after class to socialize. 

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 relax and have fun! 

What if my child is sick?

A runny nose—even clear—a cough, or a fever constitutes illness. Please consider the other families in your class when your child exhibits any of the aforementioned symptoms by keeping your child at home until three (3) days after the symptoms subside. Please use your allotted makeup days after a missed sick day.

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. 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 ready for more formal music instruction.