Noodle Loaf - Music Education Podcast for Kids
Parents say
Based on 1 review
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this podcast.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Noodle Loaf is a positive music education podcast for kids they can feel confident turning to for a quick dose of fun and learning. Thanks to playful and worldly games and singalongs, this show is a great choice for budding songwriters and musicians alike. Just don't expect kids to be quiet while they listen! Host Dan Saks draws listeners in with rhyming challenges, madlibs, and movement games. Episodes are short enough to squeeze in when little ones need a brain or body break, while still being jam packed with three or four different activities. Occasionally, this means that instructions fly by too quickly and preschoolers may find themselves unable to keep up. That said, the show's gentle tone is ideal for younger listeners and will have them giggling along again soon. Through song and music education, this show teaches kids body awareness, confidence, freedom of expression, and to embrace differences in both themselves and others. Parents should also be aware that episodes include occasional promotion of show-related merchandise and requests to donate to the show's Patreon.
Community Reviews
Fun and educational music podcast for the whole family
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What’s It About?
NOODLE LOAF episodes are made up of three to four short songs and games that encourage listeners to actively participate by singing and moving along to the prompts. Most include a call and response game called the "echo song" where listeners repeat the words and melody line by line. Other common games include "Clap it back" where listeners practice their rhythm awareness and "Time to Move," in which listeners are led on a creative movement adventure, in the style of "Going on a Bear Hunt." This show is best experienced in a place where kids will feel comfortable singing along and have room to move. Some installments also include doodle along activities that kids will want drawing materials to fully enjoy. Episodes teach elements of music education, while also incorporating awareness around different cultures, communities, and historical figures.
Is It Any Good?
Brainchild of educator, author, and father, Dan Saks, this show is a playful and sweet source of musical education. Each episode of Noodle Loaf is jam packed with compelling activities that will have kids singing and dancing along. In order to cram in so much, the show can sometimes feel rushed, particularly when it comes to offering clear directions. Additionally, the show's audio production leaves something to be desired, which is common with independently produced podcasts. Both the chipmunk-voiced co host and kids choir are often difficult to understand.
Where the show really shines is in Saks' gentle and friendly songs and games. His skill as a music educator shines through when the show deftly tackles conversations around difference, self love, and family dynamics. With thoughtful and fun activities, this show is a great pick to enjoy together with your kiddos.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what Noodle Loaf teaches them about music and expression. How do you feel after singing and dancing? How do you like to express yourself?
How does it feel hearing other kids singing on the show? How would you feel singing for other people?
Did you hear any words on the show that you didn't know before? What were they? What culture or language do those words come from?
Can you create a song about something meaningful to you?
Podcast Details
- Release date: March 12, 2018
- Genre: Music
- Average Run Time: 12 minutes
- Website: https://www.noodleloaf.com/
- Host: Dan Saks
- Publisher: Independent
- Pricing structure: Free
- Topics: Arts and Dance, Friendship, Music and Sing-Along
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: June 21, 2022
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