The relationship between math and music has been observed throughout history, from the Pythagorean tuning system in ancient Greece to modern-day algorithmic composition. Whether it’s the rhythm of a beat or the harmonies of a melody, math is an essential component of music that has helped shape the sounds we hear today.

In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating ways in which math and musical theory intersect. We’ll also look at how tutors can explore this connection, both within the traditional classroom setting and during online math classes.

How Math and Music Connect

For centuries, the connection between math and music, two seemingly different disciplines, has been studied, celebrated, and even exploited. Let’s explore some of the ways they intersect:

1.   Rhythm and Timing

Music is all about rhythm and timing. Beats, tempo, and meter all rely on mathematical concepts such as division, ratios, and fractions. A simple example is the time signature, which is a fraction that represents the number of beats per measure. The most common time signature is 4/4, which means four beats per measure.

2.   Pitch and Harmony

Math is also essential in understanding pitch and harmony in music. The notes on a musical scale are based on a mathematical ratio of frequencies. The intervals between notes also follow mathematical ratios, such as the octave, which is a doubling of the frequency. Harmony, on the other hand, relies on the relationship between different pitches and the mathematical ratios between them.

3.   Musical Form and Structure

Music is not just a collection of sounds, but it has a structure and form. Mathematical concepts such as patterns, sequences, and symmetry play a vital role in creating musical forms. For example, the sonata form in classical music follows a specific structure of exposition, development, and recapitulation.

4.   Music Production

Math is also essential in music production, including recording and mixing. The digital audio workstation (DAW) software used by producers relies on mathematical algorithms for signal processing, compression, and equalization. Moreover, electronic music genres such as techno and EDM are often created using mathematical concepts such as algorithms and fractals.

5.   Music and Math Education

Finally, math and music are often intertwined in education. Learning music theory involves understanding mathematical concepts such as fractions, ratios, and geometry. Similarly, teaching math through music has been shown to be effective in engaging students and improving their mathematical skills.

Different Ways to Teach Math Using Music

Since math and music have so much in common, can math tutors exploit these similarities to help kids learn more effectively? The answer is a resounding yes. You can teach core math topics like geometry, fractions, and counting using music.

Over the years, education experts have come up with different ways to teach math to students using music. Let’s explore some of the different ways you can do it:

1.   Math Songs

One of the easiest and most effective ways to teach math with music is by using math songs. You can find lots of educational songs online that teach everything from basic addition and subtraction to more complex topics like algebra and geometry. These songs are catchy and fun, which makes it easier for kids to remember math concepts.

2.   Rhythmic Counting

Another way to use music to teach math is through rhythmic counting. You can use a simple beat to help kids count numbers, skip count, or even learn fractions. For example, you can clap twice for every even number or clap three times for every multiple of three.

3.   Musical Instruments

You can also use musical instruments to teach math concepts. For example, you can use a xylophone to teach kids about patterns or a drum set to teach about fractions. You can also have kids create their own musical patterns using different instruments.

4.   Math-Based Dance

You can make math lessons more engaging by incorporating dance into the lesson. For example, you can have kids create a dance routine that includes counting, skip counting, or other math concepts. This is a great way to get kids up and moving while learning math.

5.   Musical Math Games

Finally, you can use musical math games. For example, you can play a game where kids have to identify the correct answer to a math problem based on the musical notes they hear. This is a fun way to reinforce math concepts and make learning more enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

The intersection between math and music is a fascinating one and goes beyond the surface level. From rhythm and timing to music production, math plays an essential role in music theory and practice. This relationship has proved beneficial for math tutors who can use music as a tool to teach mathematical concepts to kids. Using music and math together, tutors can help make learning more enjoyable and effective.

Amazingly, if you know someone more than 90 years old, they may have played with LEGO as a child.  Kids and adults have been enthralled with LEGO bricks since 1934, and throughout the decades those modest plastic construction blocks have evolved into a global phenomenon.  It’s crossed generations of people, nations, and traditions.

So, let’s take a journey back in time and explore Lego’s past and present, the fascinating patterns and creative possibilities, that make it just as exciting today as it was over nine decades ago.

The History of LEGO

Our Lego blog starts with the history of LEGO. Those little bricks, toys made of plastic blocks, that became extremely popular in the mid-20th century. It’s one of the most successful game brands in the history of marketing.

Since its conception in a modest workshop in the small Danish town of Billund, LEGO has expanded greatly. Carpenter and joiner Ole Kirk Christiansen began making quality wooden toys in 1932, they named their company after the Danish phrase “leg godt”, which means play well.  Kirk didn’t recognize that the word lego also referred to the Latin phrase legomihi, which meant ‘I assembled it’.  Ole’s son Godtfred Kirk Christiansen began to design wooden toys at the age of 17.  He later patented the plastic block of LEGO in 1958 and as a result, he revolutionized the way children play.

LEGO Themes and Product Lines

The conventional LEGO tick sets form the foundation of the poggers world. These kits include a wide range of colored blocks in a variety of sizes and forms, inviting builders to develop anything their minds can think up.

In 1987, LEGO introduced branding that identified a set as part of a theme, as well as sub-themes within these locations. The business also created product lines like Technic and Fabuland that employed parts that were not part of the conventional system.

Many other themes have been released and cancelled since then, including the addition of licensed themes such as Star Wars in 1999.  Store-exclusive sets, one-off licensed sets, and the most sophisticated building sets created before the advent of Creator Expert, are not necessarily part of any official theme.

LEGO Creative Potential

LEGO robotics has grown in popularity in recent years. This is hardly surprising given that playing with LEGO has helped generations of youngsters develop their creativity, critical thinking, and spatial abilities for decades. Because of the rapid advances in current technology, robots have become a crucial component for a wide range of businesses, including manufacturing and logistics

LEGO Robotics Encourages Children’s Creativity

To begin, robotics encourage children to explore various constructions, forms, and ideas, allowing them to think outside the box by devising diverse solutions to the same problem.

Learning to Work in a Group

Kids are provided with the opportunity to create individual LEGO robots that can handle various circumstances, which encourages them to collaborate with their classmates to reach a shared objective.

In summary, these LEGO robotics have shown to be an engaging and enjoyable way for children to develop their intellectual and creative potential.

II. LEGO Themes and Product Lines

In 1947, LEGO introduced its first plastic toys, but it wasn’t until 1958 that the now-iconic interlocking brick system was patented. This innovative design allowed for endless combinations and possibilities, setting the foundation for the limitless creativity that LEGO is known for today.

Classic LEGO Bricks

The classic LEGO brick sets are the foundation of the poggers universe. These sets include an assortment of colorful bricks in various shapes and sizes, encouraging builders to create anything their imagination can conjure up.

Technic

Introduced in 1977, LEGO Technic sets are designed for older children and adults who seek more complex and realistic builds. Technic sets feature mechanical components such as gears, axles, and motors, enabling builders to create intricate machines and vehicles that actually move and function.

Mindstorms

LEGO Mindstorms revolutionized the world of LEGO by introducing programmable robotics. These sets allow users to build, program, and control their own robots using LEGO bricks, as well as motors, sensors, and a programmable “intelligent brick” called the EV3.

Licensed Themes

LEGO has partnered with numerous popular franchises, such as Star Wars, Harry Potter, Marvel, and DC Comics, to create themed sets that bring beloved characters and stories to life in brick form.

LEGO Architecture

LEGO Architecture sets are designed for those who appreciate the beauty and intricacy of world-famous landmarks. These sets recreate iconic buildings such as the Eiffel Tower, the Sydney Opera House, and the Empire State Building, capturing their architectural essence in stunning detail.

II. Building Techniques and Tips

SNOT (Studs Not on Top)

One of the most popular advanced building techniques is SNOT, which involves constructing with LEGO bricks in orientations other than the traditional “studs on top” method. This allows for more intricate and realistic models, as builders can achieve smoother surfaces, unusual angles, and unique shapes.

MOCs (My Own Creations)

Many enthusiasts love creating their own original designs, known as MOCs. These custom models showcase the builder’s creativity and ingenuity, often featuring intricate details and unconventional techniques.

Sorting and Organizing

A key aspect of LEGO building is keeping your bricks organized. Proper sorting and storage can greatly enhance your building experience by making it easier to find the pieces you need when you need them.

III. The LEGO Community

LEGO Conventions and Events

Conventions and events bring together fans from around the world to share their passion for the brick. These gatherings often feature impressive displays, workshops, and guest speakers, providing an opportunity for builders to learn from one another and be inspired.

Online Communities

LEGO fans can connect with like-minded enthusiasts through online forums, social media groups, and websites dedicated to sharing LEGO creations and news. Websites like Brickset, Eurobricks, and The Brothers Brick serve as hubs for LEGO enthusiasts to share their MOCs, discuss building techniques, and stay up-to-date on the latest LEGO news.

LEGO Ideas

This is platform where fans can submit their own original set designs for consideration. If a project gains enough support from the community, it may be turned into an official LEGO set, with the original creator receiving a percentage of the sales.

IV. The Educational Impact of LEGO

STEM Learning

LEGO is a powerful tool for teaching Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) concepts. By engaging in hands-on building and problem-solving, children develop critical thinking, creativity, and spatial awareness skills, all essential for success in the 21st-century workforce.

LEGO in the Classroom

Educators around the world incorporate LEGO into their curriculum to support learning across various subjects, from mathematics and engineering to language arts and history. LEGO Education offers specialized sets and resources designed specifically for classroom use.

FIRST LEGO League

This is an international robotics competition that encourages children to engage in STEM learning through a hands-on, collaborative, and fun approach. Teams design, build, and program robots using LEGO Mindstorms technology to complete a series of challenges.

V. The Future of LEGO

Sustainable Materials

LEGO is committed to reducing its environmental impact and has set ambitious goals to achieve 100% sustainable packaging by 2025 and transition to sustainable materials in its core products by 2030. The company has already introduced plant-based plastic elements made from sugarcane, taking a significant step towards sustainability.

Digital Integration

The LEGO Hidden Side and LEGO Super Mario sets are excellent examples of how the company combines traditional building with interactive digital play, creating an engaging and immersive experience.  The company is continuously exploring new ways to integrate digital technology with its physical products.

Conclusion

From its humble beginnings in a small Danish workshop to the worldwide phenomenon it is today, LEGO has captured the hearts and minds of millions. It’s a world that offers endless possibilities for creativity, learning, and enjoyment – including Edutainment, where Education and Entertainment work together for learning.  In all these areas impact of this ingenious toy will continue to inspire generations to come.

So grab a handful of bricks, and let your imagination run wild as you explore the vast and incredible universe that is LEGO.

Many things in life cannot be controlled, and death is one of them. Although death is a normal part of life, it’s a difficult topic to discuss, especially with kids who have recently lost someone dear to them. This could be a parent, grandparent, best friend, or pet.

As a teacher or caregiver, know that children react to loss in different ways depending on their age among other things like their personality and their relationship toward the person who died.

For instance, a younger child might mourn by throwing temper tantrums while an older child displays regressive behaviors like bedwetting. Some may even avoid school or get in trouble in school. While these are normal, it’s important to support them through this difficult time.

This article explores ways to help a child deal with their emotions healthily and move forward in life.

Welcome their questions

A child who lost a loved one may approach you with questions like… Where do people go when they did? Why did they have to die? Did it hurt? What is a funeral? Who will take care of me now? These questions are valid and they need to be answered in an authentic way, using language they can easily understand.

Have ongoing conversations about death instead of allowing for only one conversation and ignoring other questions. And while you provide them with reassurance, be careful to avoid making any promises you cannot keep.

Maintain their usual routine

Routines bring a sense of familiarity to a child’s life. It allows them to feel safe and in control. Losing a family member causes a disruption in their daily routine, including school, meal times, and bedtimes. If you’re having difficulty keeping their schedule consistent, don’t hesitate to ask for help from trusted friends and relatives.

What would also be extremely helpful is to explain to a child what to expect so they won’t get confused. You could, for example, tell them who will take them to school tomorrow (in case you can’t do it) or when the funeral will happen and the people who might attend the funeral.

Use resources to help them express themselves

Taking advantage of therapy tools, such as trauma worksheets and handouts, is an opportunity for a child to heal from a loss. This might be their very first time to experience losing someone or a pet, which makes these resources beneficial for processing what happened.

For example, one of our trauma worksheets called “My Trauma Story” lets kids share about an upsetting event. It asks about the emotions they felt and encourages them to explore healthy coping skills, such as deep breathing, grounding, and positive self-talk.

Kids who are having frequent negative thoughts can find comfort in reciting realistic, encouraging statements like:

• What has happened to me does not define me.
• It’s okay that I feel this way. My feelings are allowed to be here.
• I can do things to help myself feel safe.

Reflect on happy memories

One of the ways people can move on from the pain of losing someone is through remembrance. It entails reflecting on and sharing the beautiful memories you’ve had with the person. This honors a person’s life and at the same time sparks positive emotions.

Turn this into a therapeutic activity by making something creative, like a scrapbook or memento of the child’s memories with their deceased loved one. It can be a collection of photos or objects (e.g. dried flowers or a piece of clothing that represents the loved one).

While completing the activity, they will be able to pour out their emotions. This is especially helpful for kids who won’t talk about their feelings yet.

Tip: Incorporate other activities that also relieve stress, such as yoga and scooter rides.

Consider grief therapy

This step is important because some children, unfortunately, find themselves struggling with the loss for a very long time. They may be feeling guilty and somehow responsible for the death even though they had nothing to do with it, or have had multiple traumas before the loss, which made them more anxious.

Watch out for warning signs that indicate the need for a child to receive grief therapy, such as being preoccupied with thoughts of the deceased loved one, changes in their personality, and losing interest in their hobbies and school.

Grief counseling comes in different forms like groups where they meet other kids, or individual therapy in which they speak privately with a counselor.

Wrapping It Up

Whether the loss of a loved one was sudden or not, children grieve in their own way. It’s normal for them to cry, regress, and worry a lot, but more importantly, we need to be there to help them cope and get professional help if necessary. Healing from grief takes time. Don’t hesitate to seek resources that will allow a child to make sense of their loss.

Related Resources

Helping your child move on after a friendship ends.

Everybody is using social media platforms these days, and these platforms have become essential factors in people’s everyday lives. People make many of their daily decisions based on what influencers say on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Influencers’ effect on people’s vital decisions makings undeniable.

One of the phenomenons of social media platforms in the new era is kid influencers, who are children with thousands and millions of followers with solid online exposure.

Kid influencers have become controversial, and there are many debates regarding how ethical it is to let kids become influencers. Moreover, with the existence of online bullies and assaulters, how safe is it to let our children become kid influencers? If you have the same questions, we are here to answer them all. In this article, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of letting your kids become influencers, and we will also talk about some tips for parental control. We will also introduce some of the most successful kid influencers for your reference. So, continue reading, and you will get the answers you seek.

Should we allow our kids to become influencers?

As social media platforms develop, many job opportunities have emerged for people in different age ranges, such as children, to become an influencer. As we all know, influencers can become rich and famous, but besides all these advantages, should we as parents motivate children to become an influencer?

All families have their own beliefs and attitude; as a result, it depends on the family to decide about their child to start and follow a career as an influencer. Parents should evaluate the drawbacks of this career and know that their children will face many responsibilities and pressure on this path.

Parents need to make sure that their kids can handle the pressure of content creation and manage the time they need to be active on social media and the time they should spend with friends and family. Parents are the only s who can realize if they can face bullies everywhere in the online world. Eventually, parents should evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of this job and talk to their children about it before making any decisions.

Even though most influencers, no matter what age group, seem happy and successful, it makes sense that many parents are still worried about their children being part of this culture. Of course, any kid can become successful as an influencer, but parents should always pay attention to their mental health and emotional growth. Counseling for teens can help young influencers cope with the stress and expectations that come with their public persona. The fact that influencers should always look perfect and create engaging daily content can lead to lots of stress and anxiety, which can eventually impact a child in the wrong way.

Parents should compare the pros and cons of letting their child become an influencer. If you agree about your child becoming an influencer, you have to talk to them constantly about their feelings and experiences to make wise decisions.

Tips for Parents

Here are tips for parents who agree their kids will become influencers.

Find out about the programs and apps your child is using.

Parents should be aware of the programs and apps their child uses as an influencer. You must learn about these tools’ features and privacy options because they can help you set some limitations and rules for your child’s online activities. Talk to your child about how to use these technologies and learn how to use monitoring tools to make sure they are safe while staying online.

Be enthusiastic about your child’s online life and ask questions.

You must become engaged in your child’s online presence as a parent like you are involved in their offline life. Talk to your children about what they like to do online, what websites they are interested in, what they will post on their accounts, and who they are in touch with online.

When interacting with your child, you will show interest in their behavior. You can supervise their online activity simultaneously to ensure any danger does not threaten them.

You should communicate with your child and make non-destructive boundaries, and keep them informed about being responsible.

Keep tablets and computers where you can see when your child is using them.

Parents always want to ensure their children are safe, especially in this digital era. Still, kids should be able to access different technologies, such as smartphones and tablets. In addition, it is necessary to supervise them while they are using these technologies.

One method that can help you as a parent is to put these devices where you can see them in the house. The reason is that you can supervise or monitor them while using these gadgets. Moreover, your child will feel more comfortable because they know you are there next to them if they need help or support.

You can put these devices in living rooms or the kitchen, where ever you and your child feel more comfortable, which can be a thoughtful way to ensure your child’s safety.

Social media parental control tools

The safety of children in today’s digital world is the most crucial thing that all parents should care about. Different Instagram parental control tools can assist parents in supervising their children’s activity in the online world.

Parents can use built-in parental control features on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. This feature will help parents limit certain content, block users, and restrict their child’s app usage.

Parents can also use third-party parental control tools such as Family Time, Boomerang, Qustodio, etc. You can customize the tools based on your priorities for your child’s safety. For example, you can block websites, supervise their emails and text messages, and even set time limitations for screen usage.

You should be honest and transparent with your children about using this software and explain that you are doing this to ensure their online safety on social media platforms. Because, ethically, you should use these tools with their consent and not behind their backs. With an open conversation with your child, you can describe their social media roles and responsibilities and ensure they follow these rules to stay safe.

Here are the top social media parental control tools:

• Qustodio
• Aura
• Bark
• Canopy
• Kaspersky Safe Kids
• Kidslox
• Net Nanny
• eyeZy
• Norton Family Premier

Top Kid Influencers

Young influencers are mastering social media platforms, and we can say this is a beginning of a new era. These children have millions of followers on social media platforms such as Instagram and YouTube. For example, Ryan Kaji is an 11 years old kid influencer with over 34 million subscribers on his YouTube channel Ryan’s World, proving that all children can become influencers. It is anticipated that the number of young influencers is expected to increase in the new year, and they will become famous and wealthy by gaining more audience worldwide. Based on predictions, a big wave of kid influencers will master social media platforms by 2023. On the other hand, there are still many ethical debates regarding kids’ participation in this industry. Many experts are worried about the consequences and pressures of this job on children’s physical and mental health.

Niana Guerrero

Nian Guerrero, AKA Niana Jose Evidente Guerrero, is a 17 years old Filipino dancer and singer on social media. Many of her dance moves with her brother Ranz Kyle have become viral.

Everybody loved her spectacular dance moves and high energy. She started dancing when she was very young and worked harder every day to improve so her audience could enjoy her activities. Today, she is one of the most loved dancers in the world, and she inspires many people and children.

She has millions of followers around the world who are following her passionately. She also covers some of the most famous and challenging dance moves, which many people of different ages and genders have welcomed.

Niana also sings besides dancing; her voice has brought tears to people’s eyes as she has an impressive and touching voice. She wants to make people feel good as she has a cheerful and bright personality, and making people happy also makes her happy.

Niana always tries to communicate with her fans, share her affection in dancing, and to sing with others. She has inspired so many people so far, and she will become one of the biggest stars in the future.

Elle Lively McBroom

Elle is a six years old American  YouTuber, and she is the child of Austin McBroom and Cathrine Paiz. She is very popular, and many people love her because of her cute face.

She has a sweet personality, and so many people adore her. Her parents share some sneak peeks of her life on their family vlog and are very proud of their little girl.

She has many followers despiting her young age, and her fans always look forward to her appearing on McBroom’s family vlog. Elle always brings smiles to her followers’ faces by singing, dancing, and showing her adorable antics.

She has a bright future ahead as a very young Youtuber, and we are waiting to see what she will bring to her fans in the following years to come, and we are excited to witness her flourish as a star very soon.

Fateh Halilintar

Fateh is a 17 years old Indonesian influencer, and he has more than 5 million followers around the world. He shares photos and videos of his everyday life with his followers and has two more accounts for his extra content.

With the explosive growth of social media platforms, it is no wonder that kids like Fateh have more than 5 million followers and are gaining more attention every day. Fateh tries so hard to share engaging and exciting content with his followers and wants his fans to enjoy scrolling through his social media accounts.

Even though his main social media account is exploding with engaging content, he has increased his activity on social media by adding two more backup accounts for more refreshing content. Undoubtedly, Fateh will continue surprising his fans and inspiring them with his unique and compelling personality.

Conclusion

Social media platforms are one of the most significant assists beyond the traditional entertainment industry, which can help many people start their brands and affect many people globally. Still, if you are considering letting your child become a social media influence, you must consider many factors, weigh their pros and cons, and guarantee your child’s mental and physical health.

Parents are responsible for setting up understandable instructions, talking to their children about online safety, and knowing how to use parental control tools and features. Because at the end of the day, nothing is more important than your child’s well-being and safety, and they should always be your top priority. To learn more about kid influencers, check out our list of top influencers and their incredible stories.