Music For Young Children

I often get the question, "How young can my child start learning music?" The answer is that there is no age limit! Music is something you can expose your child to even before they are born. Being able to play an instrument might take a bit more time, but there are always ways to introduce music before that day comes. Here are some great suggestions, based on the age of your child.

Before Birth

Studies have shown that music, especially classical music, can have a profound impact on the brain development of unborn babies. Having relaxing music on can calm your baby prenatally, and also helps them appreciate and be soothed by it outside of the womb. It also has relaxing effects of the mother as well, which is a great plus! Try to sing while you listen with your baby as well. They can actively listen to music and your voice by 24 weeks in the womb.

1-12 Months Old

During the first year of their lives, babies are learning and soaking in as much of the world as they can. This is a wonderful time to introduce them to different kinds of sounds and instruments. One way to do this is to introduce them to movement by playing music and moving their little hands and feet to it. Associating different textures and colors with different music can be fun and stimulating for their quickly developing brains. Be sure to sing to them or play a musical instrument if you know how! These are not only great building blocks for them to learn on, but also a great way to bond.

1-3 Years Old

Now that your little one is old enough to move a bit more on their own, it's a great time to introduce them to fun musical instruments. Using tambourines, little drums, shakers, and whistles allows them

to make their own music without having to take care of an expensive musical instrument. Get goofy with them! Turn on their favorite songs and march, dance, stomp, make up hand and foot motions, or allow them to play on their instruments. Children this age love to explore how to do things on their own.

Music is so beneficial in so many ways for both children and adults. Each person needs to find what type of music learning works for them. Even if you aren't out to be the next Beethoven or Mozart, let music influence you and shape your life. It is a truly powerful force.