When children grow up surrounded by music—singing songs, learning how to play an instrument, experimenting with rhythm—researchers have shown that their brains create more neural connections. This means that children who are exposed to different creative elements, including music, are more likely to do better in reading and math, be able to focus their attention better, and interact socially at higher levels.
The benefits for introducing children to music at a young age are monumental. With infants, it’s important to sing to them often—especially simple melodies that are frequently repeated. As they grow, engage them in clapping along as you sing together.
Nursery rhymes are another great way to stretch infant and toddler’s music acquisition. Although they may not understand all of the words, they will enjoy the "sing songy" rhythm and rhyme. You can also play games revolving around music. For example, clap out a pattern and see if they can copy it. Or hum a song and have them guess what it is.
Many local libraries offer "Mommy and Me" style classes for babies and toddlers to hear nursery rhymes, experience music and read books. Libraries often have additional performances by local musicians that are fun for the whole family to attend!
Preschoolers have a natural affinity for music. Encourage this by putting a collection of children’s songs on as they play independently. Or host a "family dance party" where you crank up the music and have fun moving together! As you dance, encourage them to listen to the music—as it gets quieter, tiptoe and make smaller movements, but when it gets loud, jump all over and wiggle like crazy!
They can also pretend they are a band and march all over the house or sidewalk. (You might need ear plugs by the end, but they won’t mind the noise!) Melissa and Doug have a great set of wooden instruments
Once your child can read, consider enrolling him in some kind of more "formal" music training. Although your child most likely will not be the next Mozart, taking piano lessons, joining the school orchestra, or singing in the church choir, can still play an important part in her development. Music training can help boost a child’s confidence, teach them diligence, and show them the pay-off for hard work. So even if you have no rhythm and are completely tone-deaf, do not despair! There’s more to music than meets the….ear.
Shannon is a youth pastor's wife and full-time mommy to two sweet girls. In addition to writing for ATFM, she teaches piano, writes for her own blog (Key MOMents) and volunteers at church and in the community.
