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Young Academics to partner with children’s group The Wiggles
Freya Lucas
Sep 09, 2024
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Children’s entertainment group The Wiggles have partnered with approved provider Young Academics Early Learning Centres to embed learning through music into the daily curriculum for the more than 4000 children, including those with diverse learning needs.
“I have such fond memories of taking my own children to The Wiggles concerts, and I am delighted to incorporate the talented performers’ music and content into our educational programs, and to watch the next generation fall in love with learning,” Young Academics’ Director of Operations, Jenni Gaffney said.As part of the partnership, children attending Young Academics will also enjoy a range of brand-new resources including sing-along songs and videos specially created to support their learning.
“We know without question that music enhances mood, encourages self-expression and unlocks different ways of learning,” Original Blue Wiggle, Anthony Field, a qualified early teacher and father of three said.
“We are excited to partner with the team at Young Academics, who share our commitment to learning through music and movement and having a great time doing it!”
Young Academics will integrate educational content from The Wiggles into each of its seven key program areas: core, scholar, creative, wellness, wellbeing, our world and discovery.
“The secret to our success lies in writing songs for specific developmental ages and stages, we talk to children in language they understand – and enjoy,” Mr Field said.
“We draw upon our practical understanding of early childhood learning practices to create music that inspires children to want to participate, to instinctively clap, sing along or jump up and dance.”
The provider hopes the partnership will be particularly beneficial for learners with additional needs, particularly in light of the growing number of children being diagnosed with neurodiversity disorders including autism spectrum disorder and ADHD.
For children with limited language skills, difficulty concentrating, or challenges with regulating or expressing their emotions, music can be a vital learning tool.
“Music can help children understand their emotions, especially in a non-verbal way, whether that’s playing a drum as an outlet for big feelings or listening to calming music to self-soothe,” Ms Gaffney explained.
“Educators can ask children how a song makes them feel or invite them to draw what they’re listening to as a different way to draw an emotional response.”
Routine and structure is beneficial to all children, however for children with neurodiversities, it is particularly important.
“We turn routines into rituals and learning opportunities by adding music, from putting on sunscreen and washing hands to packing toys away,” Ms Gaffney continued.
“Whether we’re teaching the children about the world around us, healthy eating habits or new words, there’s a Wiggles song to help bring the message to life in a fun and genuine way, and we can’t wait to have their expert team develop fresh content aligned to the learning habits and needs of the children at Young Academics.”
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