Where are the audio recordings for the songs?
You can purchase, stream, and/or license audio recordings from any of the music services that you already use (BandCamp, Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, etc.). Each song packet points to the exact recording (artist and album) upon which our resources are based.
Are there accompaniment tracks available for KidsCore songs?
Many of the songs we feature have accompaniment tracks available through their own websites or other sellers. They’re pretty easy to find online. While we would like to make our own recordings of these songs (especially for the sake of ranges, keys, and rhythms), it’s simply too expensive for us at this time. ProTip: if you have the proper licensing in place for your organization, you can make use of one of several websites which remove the vocals from digital audio files like mp3s, producing a karaoke-style accompaniment track. It works surprisingly well!
Is there a suggested chronological order for the songs?
Nope! We try to approach every song packet as if it’s the first you’ve used. Since children come and go from this sort of ministry, we are committed to keeping KidsCore accessible for every participant. The age/grade suggestions in each music principle are determined by their age-appropriateness but do not require any prerequisites.
What does the complexity level refer to?
The complexity level is meant to help gauge the song’s difficulty, including the “wordiness” of the song. It does not indicate the complexity of the materials within the song packets (the devotions or music principles).
How often will songs be added to the KidsCore library?
We aim to add 8-12 songs per semester to our library, adding each song as soon as it is complete. If you’d like to see a particular song added, please contact us to let us know!
How many copies can I make of my song packets?
When you purchase KidsCore song packets, you indicate your own pricing tier based on the number of participants you expect. You can make as many copies as you need to serve the number of participants you selected. Should you need more copies, please be sure to contact us to upgrade your pricing tier.
Can I suggest a song for a future KidsCore song packet?
Yes! Please contact us to let us know what song you’d like to see become a KidsCore song packet.
What if our church doesn’t have enough leaders comfortable leading music principles or devotions?
Consider utilizing rotating teachers who focus on teaching the devotions or the music principles to each age group. You can choose which of the resources are right for your group; there’s always a bit more than you need. The curriculum is designed to be flexible in this regard.
What if my group is too small to divide by age range?
Consider meeting with everyone in one group and teaching music principles aimed toward the 3rd grade. Many of these activities can be adapted easily for younger or older groups. Also, consider using varied activities for children of different ages simultaneously (some can work on coloring pages while others do crossword puzzles).
What’s the story behind KidsCore?
KidsCore began at Andrew Pressley’s local church, who sought to revitalize their children’s music ministry. As an important component of improving congregational singing, a core team of volunteers sought to invest in the kids to get them excited and equipped to sing rich songs of the faith together. The curriculum the team developed was refined over the course of a decade and was made public in 2021 after hearing from several churches that wanted to use these resources.