How long is each class?

Each class is 45 minutes.

Why does Music Together^® have mixed-age classes?

In each class we strive to create a musically rich, developmentally-appropriate environment where the whole family can enjoy music and nurture skills at the level right for each child. Mixed-age classes provide a dynamic learning environment because children of different ages thrive when they interact with each other: the babies are often fascinated by the older child, and the “big” children enjoy helping and sharing with the “little” ones. This approach is based on research from music education, early childhood development, and family relationships, as well as over 20 years of research and experience in the field.  It's also great for families with more than one young child.

When will I receive confirmation of class enrollment?

Confirmation emails are sent once payment has been received.  However, if during the first two weeks of any session a class has not met minimum enrollment, you will be notified of placement in your second choice or refunded a pro-rated amount.

What is the make-up policy?

Families are allowed TWO make-up classes per semester.  Makeups may be scheduled at any class published on the Sunshine Music schedule. Make-ups can be carried over to the next semester if you miss the last two classes of any session AND if no make-up classes are held after the end of the session.

What is the cancellation policy?

You may cancel your enrollment and receive a refund any time PRIOR to the start of the session.  If you received materials prior to cancellation, you will receive a refund less a $40 cancellation fee. No refunds are available after the first week of classes.  Non-attendance does not constitute a cancellation.

What if I start classes after the semester begins?

We accept enrollment during the first two weeks of classes and will prorate tuition for new families only.  Returning families may enroll late but will not receive prorated tuition due to late registration. However, families are still entitled to two makeup classes per semester.

Can tuition be pro-rated if I know I'm going to miss classes during the semester?

We sometimes get requests for prorated tuition from families that know they will be out of town for one or more classes.  However, we have minimum and maximum enrollments for each class for both financial reasons and energy level, and we depend on each enrolled family's payment and participation.   Teachers and rent must be paid even if a family is absent, so prorating tuition to accommodate every individual family's circumstance is not feasible.  

Can we eat in class?

Feel free to nurse or bottle-feed your child in class, but please do not bring other food or drink into classrooms. Non-spill sippy cups may be used in the classroom, but please use them away from the activities, to avoid inspiring other children to take sips from your child's cup. Please respect the fact that a few of the children have severe food allergies which can be triggered simply by the presence of certain foods in the room.

Who can come to class?

Any caregivers are welcome to attend class at any time – no need to ask. If your older child has a school holiday feel free to bring him or her to class.  Whole family music making is extremely valuable to your child's musical development and we love it when more than one family member can join the fun.

What is my role in class?

Children are biologically "wired" to respond most to those with whom they have close bonds. So your fun role is to sing, dance and be silly!  Your active participation is the key to your children learning and growing musically. Support the creation of a "music only" environment by not talking to your children or other adults during the 45 minutes. It is difficult for a young child to ignore adult conversation, so please wait to socialize after class. Refrain from giving verbal or manipulative directions, such as "Bang the drum” or holding your child's hand and hitting the drum for them.  Children respond best by just seeing and hearing you doing (and enjoying) it yourself!  Wandering toddlers are fine, but If you want your child to come back to you, avoid calling to him from across the room. If necessary, redirect your child physically back to you or the circle. Of course watch out for your child’s safety, but mostly your job is to just relax, and have fun! 

How should we use the materials?

Play CDs at home and in the car as often as possible, especially during the first few weeks of class. Make it available to your child to listen to while she is playing or before nap or bedtime. Use songbooks to help you remember the songs or to play along if you play an instrument. For Music Together families, try using the songbook at storytime instead of a regular book, and sing through the songs as you go along. Looking at the printed notes on the page will help children understand that music is something that can be read, like words. Familiarization with notation will help them when they are more ready for formal music instruction.