Cultivating the Child through Li Yue: Aesthetic Education and Music-Drama Integration in Early Childhood

Abstract

Rooted in Pre-Qin Confucian thought, the traditional concept of Li Yue (ritual and music) provides a unique framework for understanding how emotions are regulated and character is built. Moving beyond historical and political analyses, this study translates these ancient principles into modern preschool practice. Classical texts like the Liji and Yueji show that ritual (li) sets external behavioral boundaries, while music (yue) nurtures internal emotional balance. The study takes this theoretical foundation and applies it to today’s kindergartens through integrated music-drama activities. By pairing the structural rules of drama (such as role-play) with the emotional resonance of music, teachers can help young children manage their feelings and develop better character. The results indicate that when put into practice through music and drama, this ancient aesthetic model provides a highly effective, whole-person approach for modern early childhood education and teacher training.