Early Childhood Education

Toddler Music Classes Suzuki Early Childhood Education (SECE)

The Suzuki String School of Guelph is once again offering the Suzuki Early Childhood Education (Suzuki ECE) program for babies and toddlers with SECE teacher Carmen Evans.

Developed over thirty years, the Suzuki ECE curriculum centres around a carefully-structured sequence of songs and activities. Children aged 0-3 years participate in weekly group classes with their parents, learning a wide range of musical skills. The program also focuses on the development of key social skills and physical and cognitive abilities, all in a fun and nurturing environment.
 
Following the Suzuki philosophy of education - often referred to as the “mother tongue” method - children listen daily to the CD of folk songs and rhymes. Parents and children naturally enjoy singing the songs and saying the rhymes together at home, as well as in the class. Through repetition and with the encouragement of parents and teachers, small children develop the ability to maintain a steady beat, play simple rhythms, match pitch with their singing voices, and steadily build their vocabulary. They also develop inner confidence and learn how to share with other children.

How it Works

The SECE program is suitable for all children.

The class environment intentionally offers a mixed-age group so that children will observe and learn from each other. The interaction builds bonds between parents and children that enhance their learning in later years.

More than one child may be registered for each family. However, each child must be accompanied by a separate adult. 

When you register for the program, you will see an option to purchase the CD/booklet Lullabies, Action Songs and Rhymes.

This CD/booklet is required for this class and families are encouraged to start listening to the recording before the first class.

Warmest thanks to Karen Haack

After over 30 wonderful years of Guelph Orff Studio and Orff-Suzuki Music Moves, our beloved teacher, Karen Haack has retired. Thank you, Karen for planting the seed of the love of music in so many generations of Guelph children. You have been an incredible driving force in early childhood music education in our community! Your gentle, kind, whimsical and fun personality will be missed and fondly remembered by everyone you touched. Karen will continue to teach piano in her home studio.