This post is written in partnership with Kinderberry Hill.
Sing, Sing a Song!
Music truly does make the holiday season magical! But let’s talk about the importance of music 365 days a year.
Music elevates every experience in a subtle, yet powerful, way. The same is true of music’s effects on children, including making connections, regulating emotions, and supporting learning and development.
As adults, we naturally soothe young children with singing or calming music. This is almost instinctual for many, but what we may not realize is that science firmly supports many benefits of music for children. So, keep on singing!
When a child is just 24 weeks in the womb, they turn their head in response to sounds. Research suggests that in the last few months of pregnancy babies begin to recognize their mother’s voice and even language patterns. Knowing little ones are already listening spurs many parents to speak, read, and even sing to their children in utero. This will not only feed your little one’s neural development but offer uplifting and calming effects for you as well! Those of us at Kinderberry Hill find ourselves singing, reading, and humming along to music that was sung to us during our childhoods, fondly remembering those very special people in our lives. What music resonates with you from your childhood, and how do you share those memorable moments with your child?
Music ignites many areas of the brain, as it requires us to process sound. Processing sound is the key to language and literacy development. We need to be able to hear and identify different sounds and syllables to decipher speech! Singing with children is an excellent way to support development in these areas.
Music expresses that which cannot be put into words. – Victor Hugo
Music also plays a role in many family traditions, making special memories and creating bonds. Think of singing lullabies to your baby with their eyes locked with yours. This small practice was creating a precious bond, lowering stress levels for you both and even increasing your little one’s focus and attention. And singing nursery rhymes that your parents sang to you? This helps children develop rhythm, rhyming, and alliteration- all components needed to become a strong reader. And what would a birthday be without singing and blowing out candles? Music truly is that extra element that makes family times and traditions so special.
A child who sings is a happy child. – Elder Enrique Falabella
At Kinderberry Hill, we believe there is really no downside to singing and sharing music with children. Our classrooms are often filled with restful or playful music, as well as children singing their current favorite tunes!
So, take time to hum, sing, and even whistle while you play. Use music to connect, dance, and unwind. These benefits go far beyond music education and last a lifetime. Perhaps The Carpenters said it best in 1973…
Sing, sing a song
Sing out loud
Sing out strong
Sing of good things not bad
Sing of happy not sad
Sing, sing a song
Make it simple to last
Your whole life long
Don’t worry that it’s not
Good enough for anyone
Else to hear
Just sing, sing a song
Favorite sing-along books:
Sing by Tom Lichtenheld & Joe Raposo
What a Wonderful World Henry Holt and Co. (Sung by Louis Armstrong)
The Itsy Bitsy Spider by Rebecca and Ed Emberley
Five Little Ducks by Yu-Hsuan Huang
Resources and further information:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6446122/
- https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/when-can-a-fetus-hear#Will-my-baby-to-be-recognize-my-voice
- https://www.brighthorizons.com/…/music-and-children-rhythm-…
- https://speechblubs.com/blog/music-elevates-childs-speech-development/
- https://www.famly.co/blog/rhythm-and-music-games-toddlers-children
