WEST MILFORD — The township's Community Services and Recreation Department is holding enrichment programs for kids starting this month. The programs include music instruction, music appreciation and LEGOs. Here are some of the programs being offered. For a complete list of programs or to sign up for any of the programs, go to westmilford.org. All programs are at Hillcrest Community Center, 1410 Macopin Road, unless otherwise noted. Call the Recreation Department at 973-728-2860 for more information or for registration information.
Early Childhood Music Program for Toddlers and Preschoolers
Children newborn to age 5
Toddlers and preschoolers will love learning through music. Research shows that children who are exposed to music and movement as early as possible in life will usually excel in speaking, walking, math, spelling and even foreign languages. This program will expose children to a variety of music, creative movement, singing, imagination, and circle time with the use of instruments and fun. The children will use their imaginations to have fun through music and movement. This is a caregiver and child program and is a great sibling program. This eight-week session will run on Wednesdays, from Sept. 25 to Nov. 13 from 9:45 to 10:30 a.m.. The cost is $96 for the first child in a family; $86 for the second sibling (discounts are available for additional siblings).
Fun With Legos
Children in grades kindergarten through 5
This class is fun and creative. Work with a friend to build, create and explore. Children will have fun building old time favorites as well as some new sets. They will design their own vehicle and race it down the track. Children will take home a few of their own creations. Class runs Wednesdays, Sept. 25, Oct. 2 and Oct. 9 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Cost is $45 per child.
Pajama Party Music Class
For children up to age 5
This is a music and movement pajama party class. Children must participate with an adult. This is the ideal class for working parents. Taught by Erika Crocco, it will introduce your child to beats, singing, movement, use of various child safe instruments, dancing and finger and lap play. Bring the little ones in their PJs - parents can come in theirs too - and dance and sing in this evening music class. Class meets Mondays, Sept. 30 through Nov. 18 from 6:15 to 7 p.m. at the Hillcrest Community Center. The cost is $96 first child, $86 for the second sibling, $76 for third sibling. Non residents add $10.
Beginner Guitar Class
For kids in grades 5 through 8
No experience is necessary. This will be a fun, informative, and interactive class. Students will learn all the basics for guitar including note reading, melody, chords, songs and much more. Each participant must have a guitar and music stand. They can be rented or purchased at a discount at North Jersey Guitar. Call 973-728-7200. Six classes held on Wednesdays, Oct. 2 through Nov. 6 from 7 to 7:45 p.m. at the Hillcrest Community Center or North Jersey Guitar Studio at 1612 Union Valley Road. The cost is $101 per child.
Piano and Violin Music Lessons
For children in grades 1 through 8
Piano Lessons for Children Level I in grades 1 through 4 will be held from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. on Wednesdays, Oct. 2 through Nov. 13. This class will start with reading by the numbers and playing with one hand first and then expand to both hands. Short and easy tunes will be introduced to make it possible for the young ones to play and feel the rhythm from the very beginning. Keyboards will be provided for use at the lesson.
Piano Lessons for Children Level II in grades 5 through 8 will be held from 5:15 to 6 p.m. on Wednesdays, Oct. 2 through Nov. 13. The piano is an ideal first instrument for children to learn. This course will guide the student step by step through basic note reading and playing skills with both hands, by selecting familiar music to provide an enjoyable learning experience. Keyboards will be provided for use at the lesson.
Violin Classes for Children are for children in grades 1 through 8. Learning the violin will help develop a child's intellect, memory, reaction and coordination. At the end of the course, the student should be able to pluck or bow a few simple songs. Limited free violin rentals are available. The class will run on Thursdays, Oct. 3 through Nov. 21 (no class on Oct. 31). Level 1 classes are from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m., Level 2 classes are from 5:15 to 6 p.m. The cost for piano and violin lessons is $121.