Music & Literacy, Sittin’ in a Tree…

by Chelsea Rhae Childers  Rowan Public Library

Will you be my Valentine? The month of February inspires us to brood over the people and passions in life that we love, for example I love music, and I also love literacy. Few people realize that a love of music can help with early literacy, or that music and reading are directly connected because of the origin of books. Before printed text, people passed on information by telling stories. Every village had a storyteller who used melodic chants and songs intertwined with their spoken words. These stories, passed on through the generations, were part of the history of oral tradition, which led to written language and books.

Let’s think about what it takes to become a reader, from an early age. To become a successful reader, we must master alphabet recognition, understand how to assimilate printed material, use background knowledge of oral language to build vocabulary, and have phonological awareness. Which is the most important? Studies have shown, oral language development is the most important for children to later comprehend what they are reading. What should we do to emphasize this? Involve early readers in activities that expose them to oral language, including songs.

We’ve created a children’s music program, led by myself, here at the Rowan Public Library. It includes a variety of ways to develop children’s oral language using higher-level vocabulary, informative and challenging songs, thoughtful questions and discussions with rich explanations, and deeper dives into topics that are interesting. Although parents, caregivers, teachers, and guardians are the chief resources in language development, there is a high level of influence children have on one another. This music program encourages children to interact with each other as they come to understand written language. By learning rhymes, singing songs, and engaging in word play, language skills come alive.

Music with Miss Chelsea takes place at Rowan Public Library Headquarters on March 2, and April 27, at 11am in the children’s room. Beginning this Fall, our goal is to launch “Songbird Storytime,” a weekly music program incorporating a small-group reading experience for children to participate in dramatic play. This will include musical instruments, so be prepared to hear a bit of joyful noise as young literacy skills blossom at your library!