Music and Childhood Development
Musical awareness
Musical awareness begins for children at a very early age. We all know how engaging rattles and shakers are to very young children, and how singing to a baby will capture their full attention. We know that music in early childhood has its benefits. But did you know that these musical foundations are changing an infant and toddler’s brain in ways that will benefit them for life?
The benefits of Music in early childhood
Recent neuroscientific research suggests that early exposure to music helps create neural connections in developing brains. It also increases abilities in other areas, including:
- Improved problem-solving skills
- The long-term enhancement of spatial and temporal reasoning skills
- Improved language skills
- Improved outcomes in mathematical abilities
- Increases in short and long-term memory
- Greater social skills and social awareness
- Enhanced creative intelligence and developed logical brain functions
- Enhanced ability to think, comprehend and understand
Music affects children’s mood and energises their spirit. Music can also help to reduce stress, relieve tension and regulate emotions. Who hasn’t marvelled at the effect that humming a lullaby and gently rocking has on an overtired baby or distressed child? Music in early childhood also provides an opportunity for children to engage in a pleasurable and shared experience. It connects children with their peers, adults and their environment, supporting their developing social skills and attention span.
Our music program
Music is an integral part of our Oac Grow curriculum for babies, toddler and preschoolers/kinders. Our Educators provide opportunities for planned and spontaneous music and movement throughout the day. Educators also incorporate music for toddlers and early years in everyday routines.
How to introduce music at home
- Sing to your baby: Don’t worry about how you sound. Your child won’t critique you but will love the effort and attention. Your selections don’t have to be limited to lullabies. Try singing songs during play time, too. Stack a tower of blocks and knock it down as you sing “London Bridge.” Even a simple game of peekaboo can become musical theatre when you sing the words out loud.
- Share songs: That go with simple hand motions or dance moves, like “Itsy Bitsy Spider,” “The Wheels on the Bus,” or “Two Little Blackbirds.” If you’d like to introduce an instrument, keep it simple.
- Let your child make their own music: Very young children will enjoy instruments they can shake — bells, rattles, shakers, tambourines, or rain sticks. As your child gets older and a little more coordinated, try rhythm instruments that can be banged. Drums, cymbals, or xylophones are a great option. Your child may enjoy banging on a drum, piano, or xylophone, but don’t take things too seriously at this age. Most children aren’t ready to start instrument lessons until they’re 5 to 7 years old.
- Dance to different kinds of music: You might even include props such as scarves and ribbons to engage your child’s senses.
- Make music a part of your everyday routine: Songs can help your child know what to expect and feel more secure. For instance, if you always sing a lullaby at bedtime or naptime, your child will come to see this as a cue for “go to sleep.”
For more related reading, check out our Discover and Learn articles
Only About Children can help your child to grow, make friends and explore the world.
Only About Children can help your child to grow, make friends and explore the world.
Related Reads
Australia’s Best Teachers: Early Childhood Teacher Renee Connaghan
“When you get quality services and quality organisations delivering a higher standard of care that sits outside of basic childcare, then people start to develop a new respect for it. Having engaged, passionate and well-educated educators who love what they do, that’s what’s necessary to continue to lift the profile."
Settling into Childcare or Transitioning Rooms
Dr Kaylene Henderson, Child Psychiatrist and Only About Children Parenting Expert explores the topic of settling into Childcare or transitioning rooms.
