Music is an integral part of childhood development. A simple Internet research yields thousands of documents supporting the importance of music in brain development. From the first sounds of a lullaby to the repetition of basic nursery rhymes, each child will respond to the simplest forms of music. Numerous studies report the basic fundamentals of music providing the foundation for learning math as well as building self-esteem and confidence. Music classes can be an excellent venue to share music with your child. Not only do children develop a sense of rhythm, the quality time spent in a class with your toddler contributes to the bond that you share. Finding the right music class for your toddler can be as easy as turning to your local city parks and recreation department. If the city does not offer a program, they might be able to recommend a private school or program in your area. Music schools advertise in the yellow pages and on the Internet. Once you have found the available opportunities there are several things to look for before deciding on the right program for your toddler.

 Ten Important Questions to Ask any Program or School:

1. What kinds of programs do you offer? Schools may offer programs that are focused on vocal performance, instruments or a mixture of both. Music comes in so many forms, consider which form your child will develop the most from. A very energetic child may do better in a class where instruments (drums, cymbals, shakers) are the main focus. A shy child may flourish in a class that encourages vocal performance.

2. What are the age groups? What is the age breakdown and how many children are in a typical class? Choosing a class that suits your toddlers age range is important. You know your child best. If your child is above the developmental curve, you may consider requesting a trial day with the next class level. Look for a class that has the average age similar to your child.

3. How many times a week/month do you offer classes and what are the times available? Children are so diverse with their daytime schedules. A late napper might benefit from an early morning or mid-day class. Conversely, an early evening class might work better for parental participation when work schedules require night activities.

4. Do you offer a free trail class to attend? A great music program will encourage you to come in for a trial class. Use the free trial to study the interaction between the instructors and children. Are they engaging and enthusiastic? Do the other children seem to enjoy the class? Does the time work for your toddler? Talk to the other parents and get feedback about the curriculum. You will learn the most from other participants.

5. What are the credentials of the teachers? Before you commit to the class, you need to feel comfortable with the safety of the classroom and the dedication of the staff. Does the school/program offer the credentials of the instructors? Does the training require a particular education? Each program may have different requirements of the instructors some of which offer specialized training in their methods. If it is important to you that the instructors have childhood development skills, ask in advance.

 6. Are there additional charges for materials? Some programs have kits that you are asked to bring to each class. These kits may have several different types of instruments. Other programs provide instruments to be shared during class. The kits are not always included in the class price.

7. Is there parent interaction? Or, what will be expected from the parent or guardian attending with the child? If you are a hands on parent and want to be sure that parent participation is encouraged, you should consult with them regarding how much or how little parents are expected to be involved. This activity could provide much needed together time so a class that requires a more instructor driven interaction may not be what you need.

8. Do you have any references that I may call? If you do not get a chance to view a sample class, ask them for references from past or present students. Ask the other parents to name the best aspects as well as any downfalls they found with the program. Remember children and parents share their own experiences, you may find more than one reference to be most helpful.\

 9. Do you offer a discount for buying a package? Like typical schools, some classes are offered on a term basis. For instance, if a term is 8 weeks and the sessions are available all school year, you may ask for a multiple term discount. Programs available through parks and recreation may not offer such prepaid discounts but it never hurts to ask.

 10. Do you offer a payment plan? Music schools, independent or through the city, may offer scholarships or extended payment plans. Knowing in advance may save you valuable time and effort if you qualify. In conclusion, asking the right questions during your search for the school, class or program is critical to setting up a great experience for both you and your child. The payoff might be watching your shy child sing the loudest or your rambunctious child sit attentively watching an engaging instructor. Music fills our every day lives, why not find a musical experience to share with your growing child?

 Author: Kathie Papera, founder and owner of Lilypad Baby a premier site for stylish and unique baby gifts that can be personalized.

You have read all the lists about what to pack for the big day. You have outlined every aspect of your birth plan. You have copied, checked and re-checked every list to make sure you have forgotten nothing . Do you really need to pack emery boards and a facial spritzer? How about that tennis ball for lower back pain? Unless you plan to fill a steamer trunk and your luxurious birthing suite accommodates luggage for a 13-day cruise, here are the basics of what you need to have with you at delivery time.

First, and I cannot make this clear enough; pack your “suitcase” ahead of time and put it in the primary car that you drive. I have been in the baby business for six years and I have heard story after story of last minute scrambles and misplaced necessities. You might be going to your 37 week check up getting ready to spend the next 2 to 3 weeks off your feet eating bonbons only to find out your OB nurse has wrangled up a wheel chair with your name on it headed straight for the maternity ward for an unscheduled inducement. Having the bag in the car can save precious moments in a hectic situation.

Everyone envisions a peaceful and glowing birth with operatic angels singing a welcome aria in the tranquil birthing suite. Reality? Childbirth is unpredictable. Prioritizing your needs and wants is critical. Preserving the experience on video or film is a must for most first timers. Not everyone enjoys the thought of putting their body on display for the videographer, but if you would like to relive the experience, pack a video camera with extra media and a back up battery in the bag. You would not want to miss a picture of your baby’s first few minutes. A still camera with extra media and a back up battery is a must have as well.

If you are enjoying the benefits of an epidural, something to pass the time is important. This may be friends and family to cheer you on through the peaks of contractions or a magazine or book if you are progressing slowly.

If the hospital policy allows for music (and most major hospitals now supply CD players in the delivery suites) a special CD or compilation will help keep your mind busy and may serve as a soundtrack that will always bring back memories of the most courageous, beautiful and miraculous experience you may ever have.

You will need socks for your entire stay so pack several pairs. Most people forget the socks and the hospital offers little help for cold feet. Skip the pricey cashmere versions just in case you cannot imagine parting ways with socks that have been through the ringer in the hospital.

Post delivery the nurses will be tending to your physical recovery so this is when the comforts of home become necessary. No doubt you will have visitors and even though everyone will be celebrating the arrival of the baby, your friends and family will congratulate you on your magnificent accomplishment. Why not look your best? You don’t need a full face of make up and blow out to look good. A hairbrush, toothbrush, a face towel and some lip gloss will make you feel amazing. Speaking of blow out, if you need a hairdryer make sure to bring one with you. Bring a special set of pajamas and a robe (prepare in advance if you plan to breastfeed as there are special clothes, including bras, designed to make breastfeeding simple to do without completely disrobing every time). Whether you deliver the old fashion way or via c-section, you should pack some large pads. If you plan to recover for several days at the hospital, do not forget shampoo, conditioner and lotion. The hospital can certainly be nice, but it is not the Four Seasons.

Between feedings and visits you may have time to call or email friends and family. Pack along important contact names and numbers. Have a calling card ready just in case cell phones are prohibited and the phones are for local calls only.

Dads or partners should bring along essentials that include a change of clothes for day and night, a kit with hygiene necessities, cell phone, a laptop if the hospital allows, snacks and cameras. Most hospitals allow for the partner to spend the entire time with the recovering mother, but they offer few amenities.

You will need to prepare very few things for your new baby. The hospital supplies many of the necessities you need so take advantage of those items. However, nothing is more important than a car seat for the drive home. The car seat should be installed correctly and adjusted to fit the new baby. You will also need a few outfits and some soft receiving blankets. If you plan to bottle feed, bring along pre-mixed formula in the brand you prefer.

For your trip home you should have a comfortable set of clothes. Since your body will change very little from birth to the ride home it is safe to use maternity clothes for the trip. Bringing pre-pregnancy clothes is simply unrealistic not to mention discouraging.

You may have other creature comforts not mentioned here, but be judicious about what you pack. Again, pack early and keep a suitcase in the car at all times. Being prepared could remove unneeded stress during this wonderfully life changing event.

You envision your child, who has yet to be born, to be the most beautiful, sweetest, most amazing person in the universe. Therefore, you'd like to give him or her a name that is truly unique-one that sets your baby apart from the rest. Since every child is a unique creation, it only makes sense that we might be prompted to give our children names that are special, even one-of-a-kind. Still, you should exercise some caution when trying to give your baby a unique name. There are certainly some things you should try to consider, before placing that unusual name on the child's birth certificate.

Stress the Positive

Your child's name should conjure up pleasant memories. It should also carry a meaning that is truly special to you. Since your baby's name may cast a long shadow, you will have to be especially careful when deciding on a name. You might mention some of your ideas to friends and relatives to find out their reactions. While you may not want to name your child based upon a consensus vote, it doesn't hurt to have input from other people.

Think About Rhythm

Rhythm is highly important in music, so it should come as no surprise that it may have an effect on how your child's name is perceived to be. In general, your baby's first and last name, spoken together, should have a pleasing rhythm. Also, the number of syllables in your child's first name should differ from the number of syllables in the surname. If you have a particularly common last name, an unusual first name may indeed be best for baby. When he or she grows up, it will certainly make it easier to find your offspring in the phone book!

Pronunciation Guides

While you may think it interesting to have your baby's name pronounced in an unusual way, it could make life unbearable for your child on down the road. For instance, if you name your baby girl "Maria" but pronounce it "Mariah," your child will have to constantly correct people. As an alternative, you might consider an unusual spelling of a common name, such as Karyn or Caren - which make for unique baby girl names.

Investigate Your Family Tree

If you're looking for an unusual unique baby name, you might try investigating the various branches of your family tree. You might find that your great-great grandfather or great-great grandmother had a distinctive name-one that is seldom used today. In this way, you are forging a link to the past, while also providing your baby with a distinctive identity.

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