Jamkids is an exciting and fun music playschool for 0–6-year old children. We offer early childhood music education in an engaging and fun way in Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa and Tampere.
We have a lot of children and families attending our classes whose native language is not Finnish. Having a weekly music class is a nice way for both children and adults to start learning the Finnish language – not to mention all the other benefits of children’s music classes!
Studies on how music enhances language skills
Many studies agree on the fact that listening and playing music, singing and moving to music are all beneficial to strengthening language development, especially in childhood. The rhythm pauses and melodies in music remind and strengthen the same areas in brain as speech and communication.
When learning a new language, song lyrics are a good way to learn special features of the language, such as sounds, word meanings or even the usage of different words in different situations. This all happens as if by accident, without even thinking about it!
Song lyrics in Jamkids music playschool
The lyrics of the songs we use in Jamkids music classes are always interesting to children. There are typically two types of songs we use: songs with lyrics we sing together with the children and songs with lyrics the children listen to – although, we’ve found they often start singing along to these as well after hearing them a few times!
We use songs that are highly engaging, the lyrics are easy to remember, and fun to learn. The songs are repeated many times and in different ways: by rhyming, engaging in play while playing instruments – so the lyrics to the songs are easily remembered. At the same time, children learn new words; verbs, nouns and adjectives. Here’s an example, Pellen leikkilaulu from our very own Jamkids album.
Using stories and themes in music playschool
The songs we use always have an interesting story or theme for children; lots of things happen within them. There are a lot of words, often a bit more advanced in structure and musicality – a great way to develop listening skills and learn new words. Listen to an example here, Lenny Avaruusterrieri from Jamkids Musiikkimaailma album.
Music also helps in remembering words; I bet you yourself remember a song from your childhood or an advertising jingle, from start to finish! The new words and linguistic skills learnt in our classes usually stick with the children and the songs are often sung while playing at home.
Playing and chatting with friends
New social connections are being created at Jamkids classes. Getting new friends is one of the best parts of having a weekly music class for children. Whilst singing and playing, new friendships are formed as if by themselves.
Chatting and playing with these new friends, is also a great way to learn the Finnish language. Even if the children wouldn’t have a common language to start with, they quickly learn to communicate while playing. Our teachers always encourage children to talk, try new words and find a common language.
Illustrations, props and fun 'homework' enriches the experience
We use unique illustrations, fun illustrated characters and props to liven up the experience for the children in all Jamkids classes. This helps the children learn words related to the theme, e.g. space themed vocabulary, names of different vehicles or recognizing and naming different mushrooms! The children get new experiences, and this also supports the development of imagination and creativity. More about this on our blog!
In addition to the vocabulary related to the theme, children also become familiar with music vocabulary, e.g. names of different instruments. Frequently used words, such as greetings and thank-yous are also naturally reinforced during the classes.
For children in our band groups also get their very own homework booklet, packed with fun activities linked to what we’ve been learning. Many of the tasks are perfect for doing together with a grown-up – and they’re a great way to give reading and writing skills a little boost too. And if you fancy more music fun at home, you can keep the jam going with the Jamkids app!
Music is a universal language
American poet Henry Wadsworth wrote back in 1835 that “Music is the universal language of mankind.” And we teachers couldn’t agree more. In our classes, music brings children and grown-ups together in a way that doesn’t require a shared spoken language. That’s why we always encourage everyone to give Jamkids a go – with an open mind and trust in music’s unique power to connect.
