Little Squeaks and Whistles

Little squeaks and Whistles project is seeking to pilot a music program for young children in East Gippsland in playgroups, kindergartens and childcare centres. It will be available to up to eight early learning centres that express an interest. There is evidence that music helps children learn and build better skills for school. The program will bring a musician into early learning settings on a regular basis to support staff to use music in their program. The program will provide music resources, deliver professional development in music activities to support learning and social cohesion. Children have limited access to programs.

This project extends the work of CRASHENDO! Bairnsdale Inc. based on the now worldwide El Sistema program, supporting social inclusion through children learning a musical instrument as part of an ensemble, working with young children to build a love and connection with music. It will support up to 200 young children and 30 early years staff members across East Gippsland. There is substantial evidence that music helps children's brains grow and learn. There is also evidence that music supports emotional wellbeing and positive social connection and enables children to be ready for school and thrive in adolescent and adult years.