ABSTRACT
Planning, both long and short term, is a vital element in supporting and advancing children's music knowledge and skills, and is a process that begins with careful consideration of the areas of learning to be covered by each group of children. Observation is vital for the assessment of children's learning and to facilitate reflective evaluation. Much of the assessment of children's learning will be gained through observation, particularly with the youngest, pre-verbal children. The children will participate more as singing becomes familiar and they develop their confidence and skills. When planning group music activities think about ways to extend their impact into the children's independent learning and play opportunities. A story, resource or activity that becomes associated with a song or rhyme during group activities can then be used in the wider environment to trigger children's memory and inspire spontaneous singing and instrument exploration.
