Class Policies

Class Policies:

Here is a list of class policies designed to keep our classes running smoothly and focused on making music!

PARTICIPATION: In this class it is very important for the adults to participate! The children learn their attitudes and motivations from you, and you can help them become enthusiastic music-makers just by enjoying the class and participating fully. You will be an excellent model regardless of your musical ability —a sense of fun is all that is required.

YOUR CHILD: Children have the amazing ability to teach themselves through play, and even the most well-meaning adult can disrupt that process by giving too much direction. Allow your child to experience the class in his or her own unique way… whether it’s by moving constantly, sitting and staring, tasting the instruments rather than playing them, etc. We know from working with hundreds of children over the years that each child is busily processing the musical information, even if it is not apparent during class activities. Trust this process, relax, and let your child be, and you will begin to see new musical behaviors emerging as the semester progresses.

TIMELINESS: Class begins and ends on time, and it is important for you to be prompt. It is often difficult for a child to enter a class already in session. Please make a point to be here for the Hello Song, so your child feels properly welcomed.

FOOD & TOYS: We prefer to keep our 45 minutes together as musical as possible. We request that you leave toys at home so your child can focus on the class. Please feel comfortable to nurse or bottle feed your baby in class, but we ask that you limit food or drink in the classrooms. Drinks can be kept in your bag for a "quick sip" if necessary. If your child needs a snack, please take them outside the circle to avoid inspiring other young snackers. Please be courteous to keep the room clean.

GUESTS: There is never a charge for visiting adults! Unregistered siblings or visiting children may accompany your registered child once free of charge; thereafter there is a $15 guest fee. Please contact us prior to bringing another child to class. Due to the class size restrictions, we can only allow other children if we know another registered child will be absent on that date. We have a few exceptions to the guest policy. Older siblings are welcome to come on any Fairfax County teacher work day. In the Spring semester, preschool aged siblings are welcome to come with their registered sibling once their preschool ends.

INCLEMENT WEATHER: Classes will not be held when Fairfax County Public Schools are closed or have a delayed opening (you can visit www.fcps.edu and click Emergency Announcements, check the local television channels or channel 21). NOTE: Classes that begin after 4pm follow the decision made on Fairfax County evening classes, so a delayed opening would not pertain.

CAMERAS: You are welcome to take occasional pictures or videos of class! These pictures will be a great reminder of the memories that you are making with your child.

FOR MORE INFORMATION on the reasons behind our class structure, philosophy, policies, and more, check out our FAQs page!