Early Childhood Learning in a MusicaL UNI-VERSE

Viewing the cultures of four different types of West Coast early learning environments in the United States through the eyes of the teachers themselves, variables important to lifelong evolution of musical talents and the metacognitive benefits of music and movement will be explored and synthesized. Brain-based research in recent years has revealed just how important musical experiences in early life might be to establishing healthy and holistic patterns of learning (Louv, 2005, 2008; NIH, 2012; Nager & Shapiro, 2000; Restak, 2004, 2005). By analyzing and synthesizing theories of open systems with ecological systems theories, multiple intelligences theories, and theories about the innate force of inner motivation and the power of movement and musically informed play, a new lens or world view can emerge to aid in understanding and utilizing holistic learning.