Cajita de Música: Providing Enduring Music Programs for Children

In spite of the proven research that music and arts programs are essential for children, these are often the first programs that are cut from Early Childhood Centers and kindergartens. It’s well known that music stimulation is a game changer for a child’s development.

It increases neural connections, helps develop fine & gross motor skills, and improves visual, auditive, social and communication skills, as well as emotional intelligence. It’s no wonder that children who particitate in these programs report being healthier, and having lower agression levels and increased concentration skills, which are all needed for academic success.

But children’s programs are forced to prioritize a child’s physical health and nutrition over their mental, emotional or academic progress. In rural areas, this becomes an even greater challenge as they may not find the financial support or the right staff.

To fight this issue, Fundación Haceres wishes to launch a new initiative called “Cajita de Música” where they will work with teachers and musicians to create and record an academic music program that can be implemented by any caretaker regardless of their professional background. This program will consist of 8 songs developed by Fund. Haceres where the lyrics itself teaches children musical concepts such as rhythm, timbre, tempo, movement, etc. and will describe the actions the children need to implement.

There are nearly 2,700 children in Tenjo under 5 who depend on the Municipal Institute of Culture & Tourism, early childhood centers, or kindergartens, and who may fall through the cracks when there is a change in staff, delays in employment, or lack of trained teachers.

With this pilot project we hope to reach 395 children in 7 locations in our first 8 months. Please help us and Fundación Haceres make this dream a reality! To learn more about Fundación Haceres, click here.