# data[].attributes.body
As a part of my experience, we lacked resources or tools. Instead, we used our imagination and the open space to move and dance freely. We followed the environment and danced to the music. My friend's child released his energy by making body movements according to the rhythm and beat of the music. He copied the movements of the chickens and found it relaxing and stimulating. The child expressed his emotions through movement and dance, and this outdoor experience helped him develop spatial awareness, imagination, and creativity. Children benefit from this experience because it helps them improve their confidence, balance, and social skills. Spatial awareness is enhanced as they navigate the outdoor environment, imagination is sparked as they create their dance moves, and creativity is fostered as they adapt to the music and environment. Confidence and balance are improved through physical movement, and social skills are developed through group activities. The child used what was available in his environment to include in his movement and dance and enjoyed exploring nature through smell and sight. It allowed him to express himself creatively and think imaginatively. The Lake Cowel Bird Dance experience reminded me of this; Lake Cowal is a very important sacred region for the Aboriginal Traditional Custodians and is often called "the Heartland of the Wiradjuri Nation." as there were chickens in the background that we consider birds.

As an educator, I've found that incorporating outdoor experiences such as imaginary play, freeze dance, chicken dance, and soothing music about nature can bring many benefits in the early childhood setting. These activities help children connect with their environment, allowing them to feel the music and experience the joy of movement and dance. The open-ended nature of outdoor spaces encourages freedom of movement, enhancing children's physical development. It's important for educators to feel confident in incorporating such activities, as they have a proven positive impact. Furthermore, I've found that encouraging children to share their thoughts on creating something from natural resources and recycled materials can be a great way to promote sustainability.

References:

1. Creative Dance-Play for Early Childhood, from Dance Teaching Ideas.

https://danceteachingideas.com/creative-dance-movement-for-toddlers/

2. Movement in the Wild: Nature as Dance Partner, The Earth Body Institute

https://www.theearthbodyinstitute.com/2017/03/movement-in-the-wild-nature-as-dance-partner/

3. Gandini, L 2012, ‘The atelier: a conversation with Vea Vecchi’, in C Edwards, L Gandini & G Forman (eds), The hundred languages of children: the Reggio Emilia experience in transformation, 3rd edn, ABC-CLIO, LLC, pp. 303–316.

4. Lake Cowal Bird Dance - Uncle Winnie (Winata Puru)

# data[].attributes.body
Nature is a beautiful and awe-inspiring creation that has the remarkable ability to captivate our senses.

The resplendent hues of the sunset, casting their glow upon the mountains' grandeur, leave us enchanted.

The gentle sway of the trees in the wind, a dance of tranquility, creates an unmatched serenity.

The whisper of leaves, the melodious chirping of birds, and the gentle hum of insects, all harmoniously weaving a rich symphony of sounds, envelop us in the vastness of the outdoors.

It's no wonder that we are drawn to the beauty of nature and feel a profound love for it.

This immersive experience facilitates a profound connection with nature and all living entities, inducing a dramatic ambiance that stimulates the senses. The environment engenders a heightened sensory awareness, with the rustling of leaves, subtle breeze, and interplay of light and shadow contributing to the overall experience. This encounter creates an opportunity to feel more intimately connected with the natural world, leaving an enduring impression that resonates within that can be used for future practice.

References:

1.https://www.communityplaythings.com/resources/articles/the-importance-of-pretend-play-in-natural-settings#:~:text=When%20children%20are%20given%20the%20time%20and%20space%20to%20play,to%20cognitive%20and%20linguistic%20growth.

https://raisingchildren.net.au/preschoolers/behaviour/friends-siblings/imaginary-friends

2. https://www.education.vic.gov.au/childhood/professionals/learning/ecliteracy/videos/Pages/journeyhealesvilledrama.aspx

# data[].attributes.body
Recently, I had the opportunity to witness a music class for children during my visit to a previous workplace. The weather was cold and rainy, so the class was held indoors. I was welcomed to join the children, and we sat together in a big circle. The music teacher distributed fabric laces of various colors to the children, while some had egg shakers and sticks, and some were in the middle of the circle. We utilized the classroom speakers, and the teacher explained the song's meaning and how it related to the children. The children performed magnificently by singing, dancing, and creating their lyrics. The song "Inanay" deeply connects with the Indigenous culture of Torres Strait Islanders, and this musical experience with the children reminded me of Tiddas' "Play and Sing Inanay." It was a truly magical experience showcasing music's power to unite people.

Group singing is a remarkable way for children to interact with their surroundings. It allows them to express themselves physically, creating harmonies and rhythms that resonate with their environment. Singing and listening to each other fosters a deep appreciation for the world, strengthening their bond with nature. This connection is a side effect of singing and a crucial component that enriches the overall experience.

Dr. Baltagi has emphasized that vocal cords are humans' only innate instruments, emphasizing the importance of using our voices to express ourselves.

In my teaching, I encourage children to use their voices to express their emotions and feelings toward others. However, I also emphasize the importance of active listening, as it plays an equally significant role in fostering empathy and building stronger social connections. By actively listening to children's interests and ideas and being positive role models, we can help them develop self-confidence, social skills, and creativity.

References:

1. Hamm, C 2015, ‘Walking with place: storying reconciliation pedagogies in early childhood education’, Canadian Children, vol. 40, no. 2, Canadian Association for Young Children, pp. 56–66, viewed <https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ehh&AN=117176256&site=eds-live&authtype=shib&custid=s1145751>. ISSN: 0833-7519

2. Inanay by Tiddas: https://youtu.be/JLQ4by3lUJo

3. https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/lifematters/why-singing-is-so-good-for-you-and-why-we-sound-better-in-the/101918620?utm_campaign=abc_radionational&utm_content=link&utm_medium=content_shared&utm_source=abc_radionational

# data[].attributes.headline
How has my perspective of music, movement, and drama changed as a result of engaging with different experiences over time?

# data[].attributes.subject
How has my perspective of music, movement, and drama changed as a result of engaging with different experiences over time?

# data[].attributes.body
During my study and learning experiences in this unit, I have gained a deep appreciation for the critical role of music in education. The recognition of this importance dates back centuries, evident through the works of classic philosophers such as Aristotle, Pythagoras, and Plato. Incorporating music, movement, and drama in early childhood development has proven to be a fundamental aspect of physical literacy, social skills, and language development. Furthermore, with their inherent joy and fun, these activities are enjoyed by people of all ages, making them a truly engaging and stimulating method for children to learn during their formative years.

In this unit, I have recognized the importance of combining these three aspects of learning to benefit children. As an educator, I am now equipped to provide children with various resources such as natural materials, sustainable resources, and experiences that involve creativity and imaginary play in open-ended indoor and outdoor settings. Through a thorough understanding of their concept of play and putting myself in their shoes, I can actively support the world of children, playing a crucial role in their development.

In conclusion, incorporating music, movement, and drama in early childhood development is critical for children's growth and development. As an educator, I am committed to utilizing these elements to provide an engaging and stimulating learning environment for children's optimal development.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Photos and video compilation for Unit 2008