Band Camp!

This week has been an incredibly busy one for me. I have been at Band Camp with Troy University's amazing Sound of the South marching band. I am fortunate enough to be a member of the band on the danceline, and have been loving it. Since I was new to marching, I had to learn how to do it correctly. In light of this, I thought it would be neat to give out a children's book of the week with the theme of marching bands!

A Marching Band for Bears

by: Eileen B. Benator

Summary: In "A Marching Band for Bears" Eileen Benator tells a colorful, fanciful tale that will interest children from their "picture book" phase until they are well into their reading years. The story, about a group of animals assembling a marching band, is simple but presented intelligently. This book is best for Baby-Preschool ages. Great book for beginner readers.

Froggy Plays in the Band

by: Jonathan London

Summary: Heck, Froggy doesn't just play in the band, he puts it together, and drills his pals for an upcoming marching band competition. At first they sound terrible, but they keep practicing and do pretty well the day of the contest, except for a mishap or two. Does Froggy do something embarrassing and turn red in the face? You betcha. But he also shows us the value of sticking with something difficult and surprising yourself at how much you can accomplish, if you just stick with it.

Here's some ideas for fun activities with your children:

1.  Go to the nearest College or High School and watch their band perform. (Come check me out with TROY'S Sound of the South!)

2. Perform around the house! March in a line to music and pretend you are holding instruments.

3. Enroll your child in music lessons or dance classes.