‘Here I Come’ Eases Kindergarten Anxiety

Starting kindergarten can be one of life’s big challenges for the budding lunch-box brigade, but an outstanding new audiocassette by Mark Beckwith (of the Jumping Jam vocal group) can help smooth the way.

Notable for its simplicity, age-appropriateness, musical polish and hummable tunes, Beckwith’s “Kindergarten, Here I Come,” is a skillful, comfortable mix of learning and fun, set to a light pop and classic rock beat.

Besides sunny songs about vowel sounds, colors and simple anatomy, selections include a “Humpty Dumpty Freeze Dance,” reassurance about “sad and mad” emotions in “Talk to Me” (“I’ll Listen”) and “Willie the Worm,” an unusual pet for show-and-tell.

One of the most comforting musical confidence boosters is “When I Go to School,” which begins with a quiet acknowledgment of anxiety--”I knew I had to go, but I just didn’t know, if I would like this new school . . .”--then launches into an irresistible, upbeat celebration of new friends and accomplishments.

Singer-guitarist Beckwith, who consulted preschool and kindergarten educators when writing the songs, is an experienced performer and his strong vocals are parent-friendly and assured.

Among those who join in chorus and instrumentals are veteran children’s singer David Kinnoin, who co-wrote “Sounds of AEIOU” and “When I Go to School,” guitarist Richard Campbell and keyboardist Bob Selvin (who wrote “Willie the Worm”).

* “Kindergarten, Here I Come.” Ages 4 to 7. Building Block Records, P.O. Box 5079, Sherman Oaks, Calif. 91413. $8.95, plus $2.50 tax, shipping and handling. Teacher’s Guide with lyrics and suggested activities: $2.

Mexican American Culture: Families can explore Mexican American cultural traditions together in “Chicano Es . . . !,” a series of talks, storytelling and creative arts workshops with Chicano artists and musicians that kicks off with an opening reception on Saturday at Barnsdall Art Park, Junior Arts Center, 4800 Hollywood Blvd. Thereafter, the series will be held each Thursday, from 7 to 9 p.m., through May 12 at Arroyo Seco Art in the Park, 5568 Via Marisol. Cost for the series (includes materials): $24 per adult, $12 per child. Information: (213) 259-0861, (213) 485-4474.