Why music is good for your baby

The benefits of singing and chanting stories and rhymes go far beyond entertainment for your baby or toddler. Although slightly embarrassing (and most likely out of tune), research shows that exposing  young children and babies to music encourages them to smile more, self soothe and generally become less upset. So if this is music to your ears, here are some tips to encourage music appreciation and performance from a young age.

1. Get out your pots and pans, anything that shakes or rattles, embrace the chaos and have a percussive party. Consider also making instruments from objects at home. Shoe boxes, rubber bands, canisters and dried lentils or beans could all contribute to interesting instrumental choices.

2. If you have a child aged 2-5, make a day of it and visit the Baby Proms at Sydney Opera House. The shows are designed to engage and introduce the youngest of audiences to the beauty of live orchestral performance and classical music.

3. Dust off your old guitar, piano or recorder and play music to your toddler. This could form a great bonding experience for you and your baby to learn together.

4. Play music from a variety of sources - African, Celtic, Rock, Classical - expose your baby and allow them to appreciate sounds from different places. 

5. Consider music lessons for children who are particularly interested. Typically from age 3 at the earliest, children can benefit from formal lessons. Let your child's interests guide you in this area. Preschoolers might enjoy a group singing class from an organisation such as Kindermusik, where parent involvement is also encouraged.

Whatever form it takes, ensure that you impart the fun and love of music, dance and beats to your child. 

What other musical ideas do you use with your children? We'd love to know.