The Effects of Play-Centered Activities Utilizing Original Children's Songs on the Musical Expression Abilities and Playfulness of Three-Year-Old Children

Objectives The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of play-centered activities utilizing original children's songs on the musical expression abilities and playfulness of three-year-old children. Methods The study focused on 40 children aged 3, attending the preschool class at S Kindergartens in Seoul. In the experimental group, play-centered activities utilizing original children's songs were implemented for 16 weeks, while the comparison group engaged in music-centered activities based on the Nuri curriculum for the same duration. Measurement tools included the music expression ability assessment tool revised and refined by Kim Kwang-ja (2004), and the playfulness assessment tool revised and refined by Kim Young-hee (1995). To vali-date the educational effects of play-centered activities using age-appropriate songs, pre- and post-tests were conducted on children from both the experimental and comparison groups. The independent samples t-test was performed and analyzed using the SPSS 18.0 program. Results The research findings indicate that, firstly, play-centered activities utilizing original children's songs were effective in enhancing the musical expression abilities of children, including singing, playing musical instruments, body expression, and creating music. Secondly, these play-centered activities were also effective in improving children's playfulness, including physical spontaneity, social spontaneity, cognitive spontaneity, expression of joy, and sense of humor. Conclusions This indicates the significance of utilizing play-centered activities with original children's songs for enhancing the musical expression ability and playfulness of 3-year-old children. This study holds importance in moving away from the traditional teacher-centered approach of planned song instruction, and instead, assisting teachers to actively employ original children's songs, thus aiding in the understanding and implementation of child-led play activities.