Monday/Wednesday Morning Classes

JUNE: June 23rd and 25th (Week 1)
JULY: July 7th and 9th (Week 2)

PAW Prints (Infants and toddlers, ages 0-2):
10 AM to 10:30 AM

PAW Prints Plus (Toddlers ages 3-5):
9 AM to 10:45 AM
WORKSHOP DIRECTOR:
​Lena Miles-LoRusso, PAW Founder & Executive Director
​
Workshop Location
Southwestern Michigan College Lyons Building
58900 Cherry Grove Rd, Dowagiac, MI 49047

PLEASE NOTE:
If necessary, families who have children in both age groups could bring both children to the 9:00 AM Prints Plus music class, but the focus would be on the Prints Plus 3-5 year old student. Then, the Prints Plus child would shift to Prints Plus exploratory activities while the younger child participates in the 10:00 AM Prints class, which is better designed for their age group.
This way both age groups get the attention they need!
EARLY CHILDHOOD MUSIC​
​​Early childhood development is a crucial time when music instruction can make the most significant impact on a child's mind. PAW Prints uses Gordon’s Music Learning Theory, a research-based philosophy that highlights similarities between music learning with language learning. This method is especially useful for infants and toddlers, developing their musical understanding early on in age-appropriate, engaging and playful ways. Early childhood music through Music Learning Theory has been shown to increase cognitive development, help with language skills, immerse students in a rich musical environment, and increase body awareness.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT PAW PRINTS
​​Through play-based learning, this early childhood music class contains tonal, rhythmic, movement, listening activities for the whole family to enjoy. Participation from those accompanying little ones is highly encouraged. Additionally, this workshop provides an opportunity for quality time and connection between caretaker and child. Sing, move, and play together!
WHAT TO EXPECT AT PAW PRINTS PLUS
Prints Plus is a program specifically designed as a bridge between PAW Prints and PAW Cubs! Students ages 3-5 can join us for early childhood music followed by art, movement, and play activities! This program will give students the opportunity to interact through play-based, arts-focused learning. Parents are required to stay for the duration of Prints Plus and are encouraged to participate in the music portion (the first 35 minutes).
WHAT IS FLOW?
​Flow is a continuous, fluid movement to music and chants and is essential to early childhood development. Flow allows children to feel the space and time within music. Practicing flow has been shown to strengthen one’s sense of musical time, decreasing the likelihood of rushing through rests in music, as well as improve body awareness. PAW Prints utilizes this technique to assist our young students in their musical growth.
PAW has released a series of videos available to the public free to use at home with their little PAW Prints! 
Please enjoy these wonderful music lessons and consider making a DONATION to our organization! 
PAW PRINTS VIDEO SERIES
Join PAW Prints instructor Carly Tyran in PAW Prints' first ever video series! Take part in special videos with your PAW Print from the comfort of your own home. With fan favorites like Mona La Joe Do to a special Read Along story, there's something in the PAW Prints video series for everyone.​
Questions? Please contact workshop director Lena Miles-LoRusso for any additional information.