Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Review: Teaching Kids to Sing

The kids and I were sent a copy of Teaching Kids to Sing, by Vocal Coach.


Teaching Kids to Sing is, as the name implies, a program designed to aid you in helping children learn to sing.  Genevieve has been interested in voice lessons (or so she proclaims to be, at least) for the last few months, so I was excited to receive this in the mail.  An easy way to give her some basics, without the hassle of leaving the house, finding a teacher, and paying large fees before even knowing how serious she is about this endeavor?  Yes please!

The Teaching Kids to Sing program comes with 2 DVDs and 1 CD, and sells for $44.99.  It is designed for use with kids 5-13, but can be used with older teens (and adults) too.

The company that sells the product, Vocal Coach, was created by Chris and Carole Beatty.  They've sold more than a million products worldwide  - that's a big number! 

Enough of the details.  What did we think of the product?
  • I love the idea!  An easy way to incorporate music into our homeschool routine, without any fancy instruments to buy or equipment needed.  All the kids need is the computer (or TV) and a voice.  And I'm certain they have voices as I hear them quite often!
  • I liked the use of children in the DVDs.  It made the program easier to relate to for the kids - instead of just seeing an "old guy" talking to them they also saw kids, demonstrating the techniques.
  • Honestly, although it CAN be used with children as young as 5 I don't think it's a good fit for all 5 year olds.  My kids have pretty good attention spans but their focus wandered after a few minutes.  I think that we will use this product more when the kids are a bit older.  The program focuses on the techniques needed to be a good singer (how to stand, how to breathe... ).  These techniques are essential to know, but they aren't EXCITING to a very young child!
  • I liked the "extras"!  There is a homeschool section on the Vocal Coach website that gives you ideas on how to incorporate the program into your week.  Since there is no set lesson plans schedule with the program this is nice.   I've also enjoyed following the fun blog that the Beatty's operate from their website.  It's updated regularly with good tips and information for singers.

For the price I think this product is worth checking out, particularly if you have children interested in learning a little more about how to be a better singer.  The techniques and exercises provided by the Beatty family will surely make their voices (and yours) ring out with a bit more confidence!

Check out what other members of the This Old Schoolhouse Crew thought of this product here.  In addition to Teaching Kids to Sing, the Vocal Coach website also has offerings for adults.  Some of our crew reviewed that product if you are interested in learning more about learning to sing from the comfort of your own home.



I was provided with Teaching Kids to Sing for free, in exchange for a review of the product.  That being said, all opinions expressed are 100% mine!

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