In the Director’s Chair: Movies & Music Double Feature

One afternoon, watch a movie on television with your children. When it is over, watch it again with notebooks and notice when the music comes and goes. What type is it? What do you think they wanted the music to do? Rewind and play without sound. Does the scene feel different?

You can suggest that this is an exercise program for their ears. And, surely, it could easily be turned into a project for a school report.

If they get tired of it in 10 minutes – that’s just fine. The hook is in. Just occasionally – on other days – ask if they noticed the music telling them what to feel? Then – never mention it again. (Just kidding – but it is more important to keep these interruptions rare – and light. Or else they will dread when you join them for a movie.)