Benefits of Music

Put on a piece of music in a room full of infants or toddlers and watch the magic happen! You’re likely to see bouncingbodies, waving arms and smiling faces! Children love music. They are natural born musicians, ready to sing, dance and play from the time they are born. Most parents - even those who don’t considerthemselves ‘musical’ sing to their babies, even if just at bedtime. Why is this? Even the happy reaction from babies to a simple lullaby routine suggests that musical aptitude is an innate function of being human and worthy of being nurtured and developed.

Why music?

Singing, moving, listening to and playing with music involves all areas of the brain. It actively engages both hemispheres of the brain at the same time, even before a child can walk or talk. There are now over two decades worth of rigorous scientific research from labs all over the world which indicate that music ignites all areas of a child’s development and supports the development of skills they need for school readiness. It helps the body and the mind work together. Exposing children to music during their early years helps them learn the sounds and meanings of words, and strengthens memory skills. Moving to music helps children build motor skills while allowing them to practice self-expression. Quite simply, music supports a child’s total development.

Is that reason enough to make music? In addition to the developmental benefits of music, perhaps the most important reason to make music is that it brings joy. Music is powerful and unique; worthy of development for its own sake!

When is my child most likely to benefit?

Your child’s aptitude for learning music is at its strongest from birth to 18 months, it’s during this period that their brains are learning and growing the most. In fact, children learn more in this critical 18 month period than in any other 18 month period in their life. The next most important period extends from 18 months to 6 years old. That doesn’t mean you have to rush out and sign your toddler up for instrument lessons. In the early years your child’s best teacher, is you!

How can I support my child’s musical development?

SING.It can be as simple as making music together at the start and end of each day.

DANCE.Your child loves to dance, and even more so with you!

PLAY.Explore some simple, child-safe instruments such as drums and shakers.

LAUGH.Singing together creates feelings of connectedness andcomfort.

GROW.Take a music and movement class with your child.

There is no downside to bringing children and music together through fun activities. We are all able to enjoy the benefits of music from the moment we’re born. From the pure pleasure of listening to soothing sounds and rhythmic harmonies, to gaining new language and social skills, whatever the setting— at home with family, a playground filled with people, or a fun class—music can enliven and enrich the lives of children and the people who care for them.

For more information on how to include music in your child's life, contact: Jodie Fera, Director, Music Together of Kitchener-Waterloo Waterloo, Baden and Cambridge and Sasha Judelson, Director, Great Lakes Music Together Kitchener, Guelph and Puslinch