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I don’t know about you, but in today’s often stressful, messy world, I sometimes think, “Gosh, I wish I was still a kid.” Children’s lives are so easy, right? Filled with play and imagination and fun. Not a care in the world. Except, that’s not true. Children are constantly having new experiences, new emotions, new friendships, all of which can be scary or joyful or somewhere in between, Unlike adults, children often don’t have the tools in their young toolboxes to deal with all of this newness. That’s where the four albums featured here come in. These albums lift listeners spirits, provide encouragement and empowerment, and offer some ideas on how to cope with all of the new things a child may be experiencing.

First up is Big from singer/songwriter/music educator Kim Noller. The title song kicks off the album and sets the stage for the ten tracks filled with reassuring messages of affirmation. From “Big” which addresses all of the big feelings that children experience, to “Time to Dance,” a tune about letting your light shine just as brightly as anyone else’s, to the closing track, “Worthy,” Noller’s lyrics uplift listeners, filling them with hope and the encouragement to believe in themselves. Her rich vocals lend a depth to each song including the upbeat, interactive movement song “Good Day,” and the unique “Let’s Write Another Song” which celebrates a variety of musical genres.

Next up is Pam Felber of Ziggity Zag Music with her debut album Circle Round to Joy! Felber’s over 35 years as a music educator, along with her understanding of Social Emotional Learning (SEL), are evident throughout the eleven original songs in this collection. Whether she is singing about building relationships with others on “Can I Join Your Circle” and “I See You” or managing your emotions on “Choose Happy,” Felber weaves an underlying message of kindness and support throughout. While this was a family affair with Felber’s four grandsons and other family members appearing on the album, it is Felber’s light soprano that takes center stage. 

Now let’s turn the spotlight on The World is Waiting for You, the most recent album from Linda Yapp. Yapp, the founder of the Nye Beach Montessori School in Newport, Oregon, imbues her music with messages of peace, kindness and a respect for all living things. Her crystalline voice combined with the folksy melodies creates an almost ethereal quality, filling listeners with a sense of warmth and tranquility.

And finally, the perfect album with which to end the day, Dreamland: Relax and Imagine. This collection, the third family album from singer/songwriter Jenn Cleary, serves to soothe the soul of listeners young and old with songs that offer peace and encourage relaxation. Each track is completely unique and features Cleary’s storytelling style lyrics and engaging vocals. The title track has a pseudo-psychedelic feeling to it, making it a fun alternative to standard lullabies. Whether she is calling to mind the lush green hills of Ireland in “Celtic Dream,” teaching listeners about the constellations in “Rocking Chair to the Stars,” or detailing the different types of “Clouds,” Cleary manages to educate as well as entertain.