One of Kirby's passions is to encourage parents to interact with their children and to provide a consistent link between home and school. As an educator of so many children, said Kirby, I am able to see the effects parents have on their children's learning and discipline at school. When parents take an active role in their child's learning, the results are amazing. Kirby feels music education offers a unique opportunity to motivate and inspire children. Music is the universal language, so even the youngest of children can feel good about themselves, she explained.
Challenges come when a child gets frustrated or scared.
I try different techniques to help the child overcome his fears. Usually, that s the best time for parents to help. A child can become frustated if the link between home and school is inconsistent. Consistency is the key for children this age. Kirby s classes at Long Cane begin with a general music curriculum, which includes rhythm instruments, recorders, basic singing, music appreciation, notation, composition, music in technology, and the integration of arts throughout the school.