Since the onset of the pandemic, children all over the world have had to deal with long
periods of isolation, absence of healthy socialisation, regular teaching methods, extra-
curricular activities, or even a semblance of normalcy. Rajesh Bhatia, an eminent
educationist, empathises with the challenges that parents and children are facing due to
these unusual circumstances.
Research has shown that musical intervention positively impacts the educational
processes and development of children. Rajesh Bhatia, Founder, and CEO of
TreeHouse, a borderless, online pre-school organisation, reaffirms that music is one
way to offer joy, comfort, and a creative outlet to children who have been away from
recreational diversions for a protracted period of time.
This belief is reflected in the teaching methodology adopted by TreeHouse preschools.
Regular sing-along sessions conducted online help alleviate some amount of stress,
reduce feelings of isolation and encourage informal learning. Musical sessions
encourage children to let go of inhibitions that they may have cultivated as a result of
imposed social isolation.
Rajesh Bhatia, keenly observes the impact of these sessions on the psyche of children.
Many shed their inhibitions, begin to dance, clap and express emotions freely. Music
becomes a channel for self-expression and an outlet for pent–up energy.
Rajesh Bhatia asserts that young children need the outdoors and interactive activities,
especially during the pre-school stage to explore the world beyond the confines of their
homes but the pandemic has robbed them of this natural progression. At Tree House,
we endeavour to create learning modules that broaden horizons. Children feel free,
adventurous, eagerly explore their surroundings, and are open to new experiences.
Music and movement underline conceptual learning. Music enriches the mind and spirit
of all, especially children, as they are receptive to its subliminal energy. Music also
helps the mind and body to work in tandem and improves mental health. He reiterates
that music sharpens intellectual, social, emotional, motor end language skills needed for
school readiness. Interesting work is being done to incorporate music in all areas of
education at the pre-school level.
