The place of performing arts in early childhood has been firmly established. Participation creates an enjoyable activity as well as developmental achievements. But most importantly, at the Razzamataz Early Years classes, the focus is on inspiring imaginations to lead to an exciting world of possibilities.
It’s never too early to light the spark of interest, which is why the classes start for babies at just six months old with their parent or career. With tons of experience in how to inspire little ones and shape their futures, the classes include activities that will stay with families for many years to come.
Even the youngest child can enjoy learning if their imagination is inspired as parent Kinga explains, having attended a number of the sessions at Razzamataz Dumfries with her daughter Emma: “Emma enjoys the room lighting, cuddly toys and the activities that are included in each session. Classes are divided into two blocks of learning time and play time that helps little ones to concentrate for a long as they can manage at their age, followed by fun play time with really nice toys.”
This new hobby can inspire both child and parent to try something new as is the case at Razzamataz Early Years Tyrone & Fermanagh in Northern Ireland where they are learning Makaton sign language as Principal Tara McGuone explains: “We sometimes learn Makaton signs to help sing our favourite songs. It helps babies develop important communication and language skills and it’s also great for the grownups to have something fun to continue to do at home. Something they both learnt together.”
Both student and parent have really enjoyed this activity as parent Nicola Loughran explains: “My wee Annabelle is now obsessed singing Old McDonald and doing the Makaton with her hands. It’s super cute.”
The classes are divided into different age groups with activities that best inspire children at different stages of their lives. Razzamataz Early Years consists of a brand-new product called Razz Tiny Tots, which is a class especially designed for babies (to they start walking) and their parent/carers. It also includes the established products of Razz Tots for children walking to age three and Razz Minis for those age four to six.
Music in particular has been found to accelerate brain development, especially around the areas of language development. Young children can learn incredibly quickly and it is amazing to see their progress week by week. Grandparent Sam has been taking her granddaughter Sophia to Razzamataz Dumfries for the last five months and has been amazed with her progress. “It’s lovely to see how much Sophia has grown and developed in such a short space of time and to see how she interacts with the other children,” says Sam. “There is a new theme in each block and it doesn’t take long for Sophia to remember the songs and actions that go with them, which she then likes to replicate at home.”
