Music Kids for Babies,
Toddlers and Preschoolers
Established in 2005, Music Kids is Chinook School of Music’s early childhood music program for ages six months to five years. Our modern approach to music education integrates scientific research supporting the positive role that music plays on brain development and emotional regulation.
Join our circle of fun as we sing, move and play instruments while developing fundamental music skills.
Music Kids has three 10 week sessions per year as well as Music Kids in the Park in the summer months and Summer Day Camps!
Register for Spring Classes Now!
Register for Spring Classes Now!
Spring Session
April 13 - June 22
No classes May 18th
Program Notes:
Ages 3-5 Classes are parent-free classes
Siblings classes are designed for families of 2+ children from the same family
We Build a Lifelong Foundation in Music - But That’s Just the Beginning
At Music Kids we witness the pure joy that music brings to babies and children, and we know its impact runs deep. Music supports healthy brain development, strengthens emotional regulation and offers a powerful outlet for self-expression. But perhaps most beautifully, we love how music nurtures the bond between children and their caregivers, fostering connections, trust and joy.
Through music, we help children grow not just as musicians, but as confident, connected and expressive individuals. That’s the heart of what we do and why we love it.
What Will My Child Learn at Music Kids
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Accelerates Brain Development: Studies show that music engages areas of the brain linked to language, memory, and spatial reasoning - key foundations for future learning.
Fosters Early Language Skills. Infants exposed to music show improved listening, sound discrimination, and pre-verbal communication, all critical to early speech and literacy.
Promotes Emotional Regulation. Music activates the brain’s limbic system, which processes emotion, and supports the development of neural pathways involved in self-regulation.
Encourages Social Development. Group classes teach turn-taking, cooperation, and empathy - essential building blocks for healthy peer interactions.
Cultivates Creativity and Imagination. Music making sparks curiousity, problem-solving and supports innovative thinking.
Strengthens Parent-Child Bonds. Parents and children learn activities and repertoire together creating meaningful shared experiences that forever enrich and enhance their lives.
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Enjoy a warm and nurturing introduction into the world of music in our 6-24 month old classes where smiles, connection and curiosity thrive. Key areas of development at this stage include:
Language Acquisition. Singing and rhythmic play stimulate the same neural pathways used for language development, enhancing phonemic awareness, auditory memory and early speech processing - all essential for language and literacy development.
Motor Skill Development. Movement based activities paired with instrument play help develop both fine and gross motor skills, supporting physical and spatial awareness.
Instrument Discovery. Children explore a wide range of age appropriate instruments such as chiquitas, drums, bells and more which stimulate tactile learning, auditory discrimination and hand-eye coordination.
Socialization. A playful group setting encourages parallel play, imitation, and awareness of others, fostering the earliest stages of social interaction and cooperation.
Auditory Processing. Exposure to patterns in music enhances the brain’s ability to process, differentiate and respond to sounds laying the foundation for listening skills and cognitive growth.
Secure Attachment. Shared musical experiences between a caregiver and child foster a sense of safety, trust and emotional attunement - a foundation for emotional well-being and healthy relationships.
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Experience a lively class where toddlers experience the joy of music through song, movement and instrument play. Here are some of the key areas of development cultivated at this stage:
Musical Foundation. Children learn primary musical concepts such as tempo (fast/slow), dynamics (loud/soft), pitch awareness (high/low) through engaging songs and instrument activities.
Emerging Independence. Toddlers learn to follow cues from the teacher enhancing their ability to participate without direct parental involvement.
Instrument Exploration. New instruments such as the xylophone, bongos and clackers are introduced allowing children to experiment with different sounds and rhythms.
Motor Skill Development. Fine and gross motor skills are enhanced through activities involving movement and mallet coordination, improving coordination and control.
Developmental Milestones. Through musical games and activities, children practice identifying colours, learning numbers, counting and developing skills in taking turns and sharing.
Emotional Regulation. Engaging in musical activities helps toddlers develop emotional regulation by activating brain regions involved in emotion processing such as the amygdala and prefrontal cortex.
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Young musicians learn fundamental music concepts and social independence in our preschool music classes. Key elements include:
Social independence. This is the first class that caregivers are no longer present, allowing children to build confidence, autonomy and comfort in a group learning environment.
Rhythmic Literacy. Through a variety of instruments, children learn to recognize and create rhythms both visually and aurally.
Singing. Developing the singing voice is a central focus at this age. Children begin matching pitch, exploring vocal range and using their voices expressively and musically.
Movement and Gross Motor Integration. Children learn best through movement. Body percussion, action songs and movement games support coordination, body awareness and internalization of musical concepts.
Ear Training. Learning songs strengthens listening skills and helps develop the musical ear.
Musical Vocabulary. Young musicians expand their knowledge of musical symbols and terminology, building a foundation of musical literacy.
Conducting and Ensemble Play. Children are introduced to the role of a conductor while playing a variety of instruments such as drums and bells, learning to collaborate and play as an ensemble.
Creative Expression and Emotional Development. Children express themselves creatively, and are encouraged to communicate their feelings in a supportive setting.
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Our preschool music classes support young children in developing early musicianship skills and building a strong musical foundation. Skills cultivated include:
Note Reading. Children are introduced to reading music starting with the C major scale using note names and solfege.
Musicianship Development. Through songs, clapping and instrument play, children explore melody, rhythm, dynamics, tempo and form, building comprehensive musicianship skills.
Instruments of the Orchestra. Children learn about the various instruments of the orchestra and the unique sounds they produce.
Composer Exploration. Children discover the lives and music of the great composers as well as contemporary songwriters and musicians.
Music Composition. With guidance, children explore simple notation and composition through instrument play, handbells and storytelling activities laying the groundwork for original musical expression.
Preparation for Private Music Instruction. Young musicians learn foundational concepts in preparation for private music lessons on the instrument of their choice.
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Music Kids private lessons combine the fundamentals of early music study with the engaging, play-based approach of the Music Kids curriculum. Designed for pre-reading children who are ready to try a private instruction without the necessity of a home practice routine. These lessons offer a joyful introduction to private music study.
Pre-requisite: Children must be a minimum of 4 years of age. Younger children may be accepted with instructor approval.Individualized Learning Pace. Lessons are tailored to each child’s developmental stage and learning style.
Independence. Children gain confidence in a supportive one-on-one learning environment.
Student Led Exploration. Lessons are tailored to each child’s interests, incorporating a variety of songs, instruments and activities to introduce core musical concepts.
Fundamental Skills. Students begin learning note reading, rhythms, performance etiquette and more.
Music Literacy. Through singing, piano, drums and movement, children develop their understanding of notation, rhythm, musical symbols in a multi-sensory format.
Pathway to Private Lessons. Young musicians discover their musical interests allowing parents insight into which instrument is best suited for their child's future musical studies.
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Private lessons: piano, violin, guitar, ukulele, drums, voice, cello, flute, saxophone, clarinet
Beginner Group Violin, ages 4&5
Learning Ukelele Together, ages 5&6
Musical Theatre - ages 6-12
Piano & Song Club - ages 6-11
What You Need for Class
While students share our larger instruments in classroom activities, families are encouraged to purchase an instrument kit for their own use in class and at home.
A unique instrument kit is available for each season of Music Kids which includes items that are used extensively throughout the session. Additional favourite classroom instruments are also available for purchase.
If you have already purchased a Music Kids Kit, bring it along to class. You may also wish to create your own musical instruments at home utilizing common household items (tupperware containers for drums , wooden spoons, etc.).
Music Kids in the Park
June-August
Looking for family fun in the sun? Join our circle in the park as we play instruments, learn rhythms and sing melodies in the great outdoors!
Our beloved Music Kids in the Park program returns to Kiwanis Park in SW Altadore and North Haven Green Park in the NW again this year. Pack your sunscreen and a blanket to sit on and get ready for a summer of music and joy!
Multi-age Program: From movement and instrument exploration to summer-themed songs, our multi-ages program offers an unforgettable experience! Designed for children, six months to 5 years, Music Kids in the Park cultivates an environment where younger musicians are inspired by their older peers, and our older participants take pride in leading the way. Our dynamic teachers ensure that each activity is engaging and developmentally appropriate for every child.
Music Kids in the Park is not just about learning music; it's about creating memories. Don't miss out on this summer tradition! Spaces are limited, and our program is a favorite among families.
Music Kids Birthday Parties!
Bring the Music Kids experience to your next birthday party. Have our instructors come to your party location with all the music and fun!
Our Music Kids Birthday Party package is a hit with children, 6 months to 5 years of age. Enjoy favourite activities from our popular Music Kids program!
Let’s Party!
Interactive music games
Instrument play for all the kids
Parachute, movement, songs & instrument activities
Free kazoos for all attendees
60 minute session
$200
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Parties must be booked a minimum of two weeks in advance and are subject to instructor availability.
Full payment is due at the time of booking.
One week's notice is required for party cancellation. Cancelled parties are subject to a $25 administration fee.
Parties are designed for a maximum of 12 children.
Parties with more than 12 children may be considered; extra charges for an assistant will apply.
Each child under 3 years of age must have a caregiver present at the party.
Please ensure your guests arrive 15 minutes before the party is scheduled to start.
Adequate space, free from furniture and sharp corners is required for the party.
Parties must be within Calgary city limits.Special requests for parties outside of Calgary may be considered, extra driving charges will apply.
Testimonials
“Absolutely love the Music Kids classes, my lil guy loves them too. They are very engaging. After the first class our instructor suggested sitting next to her so it would be easier for our child to follow as he was the youngest in the class . Throughout the months he grew into a little social butterfly, loving and enjoying the classes!! I will recommend the school to everyone! 💙”
- Karolina B
“Great class, kept my child engaged and a great way to have social interaction for my child. Fun props and a variety of instruments for kids to play with!”
- Romani K
“My son is so excited to return in the winter session and he was so proud to get his Music Kids certificate this last Fall. He said “My teacher is the nicest and best teacher in the world!”. Thanks for making the class so fun for him :)
- Nadyne S
Music Kids F.A.Q
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Fall, Winter & Spring Sessions
Music Kids sessions are 10 weeks in length. Classes are 45 minutes long.
The session fee is $220 per student. This fee is pro-rated if you enroll after the session start date.
The siblings fee is $187 per student and is designed for families of 2 or more children in the same class. The siblings class is open to children, 6 months to 5 years of age. Single student registrations are accepted into siblings classes for a fee of $220 per student.
Classes for students ages 3 and up are parent free. For some children, this will be their first experience in a parent-free class - a significant milestone! In our experience, children who are initially hesitant to separate from their parents or caregivers usually settle within the first 10 minutes of class. We kindly ask that parents refrain from attending, as the presence of even one parent can prompt others to want their parents as well.
Free Parking is available at both of our locations in our parking lot and on the surrounding streets.
Drop-in classes are not available at this time.
Music Kids Refund Policy:
This program is non-refundable after the first class of the session. Refunds issued prior to the first class are subject to a $50 administration fee. Students wishing to permanently transfer from one Music Kids class to another during a session may do so provided that space is available.
Music Kids Health & Safety
Classes are not available to children and parents experiencing cold or flu symptoms.
Surfaces are disinfected between classes.
Please note, health and safety protocols for Music Kids are subject to change at anytime. All updates will be communicated to registered families via newsletter and/or emails.
Music Kids Classroom Policies
General Classroom
Please do not attend class if you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms.
A supervising adult must be present with each child for all parented classes. We ask that only one caregiver attend with each child at this time.
No outside food, drink or toys in the classroom. Please leave beverages outside of the room. Chinook School of Music is a nut-free facility.
If your child is upset or disruptive during class, please leave the classroom until your child is calm.
Due to allergies, no perfume or strong scents are allowed in the classroom.
Parents, please refrain from social conversations during class as well as texting and answering cell phones.
Diaper changes may be done in the washroom in the main hallway.
Clothing
Outside footwear must be removed at the door.
To avoid slipping, please dress your child in indoor shoes or slippers that grip.
Be sure to wear clothing that is comfortable for maximum mobility.
Siblings
Siblings who are young enough to sit in a car seat may attend the classes. Once the sibling is mobile, please make alternative arrangements.
Attendance/absences
Please do not arrive for class more than 5 minutes prior to start time.
Classes will start and finish on time. If you are late, do your best to minimize the disruption to the class already in progress.
Make-up classes are not available.
There will be no refunds for missed classes.
Although Chinook School of Music expects to operate the facilities during the term of this agreement, Chinook School of Music shall be under no liability for failure to deliver services in circumstances beyond the control of Chinook School of Music, including but not limited to, Acts of God (including fire, flood, storm, pandemic, or other (natural disasters), acts or regulations of public authorities, and political or social upheavals.)
Communication
Chinook School of Music uses e-mail as our primary mode of communication. Please provide us with your e-mail addresses, including those of all relatives or caregivers attending class. Hard copies of our information are available. If you did not receive an email from us yet, please update your email address with us at your earliest convenience.
Parent-free classes (3 - 5 Year Olds)
Please drop your child off no sooner than 5 minutes before class begins.
Please arrive to pick up your child two minutes prior to the end of class. The children will be kept in the room until contact with their caregiver is made.
Have your child visit the washroom prior to class.
For some children, this will be their first experience in a parent-free class - a significant milestone! In our experience, children who are initially hesitant to separate from their parents or caregivers usually settle within the first 10 minutes of class. We kindly ask that parents refrain from attending, as the presence of even one parent can prompt others to want their parents as well, creating a domino effect.
Materials
Supplemental materials are provided throughout the term as needed.
Instruments and books used in the class are available to purchase through the school on the second level. Purchase instrument kits on this page and pick them up at your first class!
Liability
Chinook School of Music, their directors, officers, employees, agents, volunteers, contractors, and representatives are not liable for any damages, injuries, illnesses or claims relating to or arising from participation in music lessons, classes or performances or through entering and leaving the premises or facilities.
Government Mandated Closures
Should a government mandated closure of Chinook School of Music occur, all Music Kids classes will continue on a virtual platform.
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Our curriculum is designed to encompass both the younger and older students in each age category. We prefer that you register your child for the class that is age appropriate for them at the time that the class begins. If their teacher feels they need to change classes, they will let you know. Teacher permission is required to register for a class that your child is too young for. Children in the parent free classes must be toilet trained.
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We request that all children attend class with one caregiver per child. If this is difficult for you, we offer siblings and mixed aged classes for caregivers who have more than one child to manage at a time. If you are certain that your two children will fit into the class effectively with only one caregiver, please contact our administration and they will direct you to the teacher who will make the final decision.
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When you register for Music Kids, you are paying for the spot in the class session. If we offer someone a partial registration, we may be denying full registration to another family. Sometimes there is another family you know who could take over your spot when you are away. We are happy to transfer your registration to accommodate that.
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Music Kids do not offer make-up lessons. Our program sees over 200 students per week and absences occur for many different reasons. Administration and teachers are unable to manage facilitating make-up lessons.
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We welcome younger infants who are still immobile. Parents are able to leave baby in a bucket seat or use a sling or other carrier to manage both children. If the younger sibling is crawling or walking, we have siblings classes available for both children.
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Yes. Children with autism respond well to our Music Kids program. We will require a caregiver for all age groups for at least the first session.
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Absolutely. The language of music is universal! We have had many ESL students come through our Music Kids program and thrive.
Music Kids Refer a Friend Program
We believe that the best way to grow our musical community is through your kind words and recommendations, and we want to show our appreciation for your support.
How It Works: When you refer a new student to Chinook School of Music, you will receive a $25 school credit applied to your account.
There is no limit to how many referral credits you can get!
Start earning today!
Music Kids in Daycares
Experience Music Kids in your daycare, preschool and playschool. Our instructors customize programs for children ages 6 and under. Length of sessions range from 6 weeks to year round. We bring our instruments, songs and activities to your classroom and create a joyful learning environment for all!
Please fill out the request form below and our Director will contact you. We look forward to sharing our love of music and learning with your children!
“The children really enjoyed singing with Anna. It was so cute to watch them with her. It isn’t very often you will see toddlers sit for very long but with Anna they sat with full attention for some time.”