An in-service training program in music for child-care personnel working with infants and toddlers

The purpose of this study was to develop, implement, and evaluate an in-service training program in music for child-care personnel working with infants and toddlers. Results of a needs assessment determined that most child-care centers offer music activities and that caregivers would be interested in receiving training. Training materials were developed, pilot-tested, and revised. For the final training program, caregivers in a university-based child care program attended three in-service training sessions. Evaluation of the program revealed that caregivers made significant improvements in their attitude toward and knowledge about music activities for young children. Additionally, caregivers increased their use of 9 out of 11 behaviours considered necessary for successful music activity implementation. The children in their care also increased the amount of time they were visually, vocally, and physically engaged during music activities. These results suggest that a music training program can benefit both caregivers and children.