This course bridges research to practice by demonstrating how a "natural" curriculum, rich in the repertoire of traditional children's songs, rhymes, games and dances, can develop young children's musical intelligence, singing and movement skills, and expressive sensitivities. A model of parents and children playing together in the years from birth to age three will be presented as well as a curriculum for 3- to 8-year-old children in classroom settings. Objectives for this course include introducing effective psychological principles, techniques, and materials to aid in the discovery and maximization of the innate music potential of children in preschool and the early elementary grades; developing teaching skills appropriate to the developmental abilities of children in grades N-2; and developing the ability to design curriculum appropriate for grades N-2.