The Benefits of Music in Early Childhood
Updated: May 26
As parents, we all want the best for our children, and we strive to provide them with the best possible start in life. One of the most beneficial ways to do this is by introducing our children to music at an early age. Early learning music has been shown to have numerous benefits for children, including improved cognitive function, language development, and social skills. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the reasons why parents should consider incorporating music into their child's early learning.
Cognitive Development
Early exposure to music has been linked to improved cognitive development in children. Studies have shown that music can help develop a child's ability to reason, problem-solve, and think creatively. In fact, some research suggests that children who receive music instruction have better cognitive skills than those who do not. By introducing music into your child's early learning, you are helping them develop critical thinking skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Language Development
Music is also known to help with language development in children. Music and language are closely connected in the brain, and early exposure to music can help children develop their language skills. Studies have shown that children who receive music instruction have better language development than those who do not. By introducing your child to music, you are helping them develop their language skills and giving them a head start in their education.
Social Skills
Music is a great way to promote social skills in children. Playing music with others requires cooperation, communication, and teamwork, all of which are essential social skills. Children who participate in music programs learn to work together, share ideas, and support one another. This can help them develop friendships, build confidence, and improve their social skills overall.
Emotional Development
Music has also been linked to emotional development in children. Listening to music can help children learn to identify and express their emotions, which is an important part of emotional development. Playing music can also be a great way for children to express their emotions positively and constructively. This can help them develop a healthy emotional outlook and improve their overall well-being.
Improved Memory
Music has been shown to improve memory in children. Learning to play an instrument or sing requires memorizing notes, lyrics, and rhythms. This can help improve a child's memory skills, which can benefit them throughout their education. Improved memory skills can also help children with tasks such as studying for exams, remembering instructions, and recalling important information.
In conclusion,
Early learning of music has numerous benefits for children, including improved cognitive development, language development, social skills, emotional development, and memory. As parents, we should consider incorporating music into our child's early learning to help them develop these essential skills. Whether it's singing songs, playing instruments, or attending music programs, music can have a positive impact on our children's development and overall well-being.
Music and Child Development Here are two videos worth watching
1. What If
2. Breaking The Wall To Neuro-education
What If: by Anita Collins
What if a large number of scientific studies had proved that there is one activity that can improve our cognitive function, help our memory systems, help us to learn the language, and is most effective when undertaken before the age of 7 years Find out why Anita Collins describes the effect of music “like fireworks going off in the brain” in this engaging and fascinating Talk.
Breaking The Wall To Neuro-education with Dr. Nina Kraus
This brilliant explanation of how music impacts the development of sound processing and language development is given by Dr. Kraus, Professor of Neurobiology at Northwestern University USA.
Here are a few links for parents in the UK who are interested in exploring early-learning music for their children:
Music for Youth
This organization provides opportunities for young people to perform and engage with music. They also have a directory of music education resources for parents and teachers.
The National Youth Choirs of Great Britain
This organization offers choral programs for young people across the UK. They also have resources for parents and teachers interested in introducing children to choral music.
Sing Up
This website provides resources and tools for teaching music in schools and at home. They have a section dedicated to early years music, which includes songs and activities for young children.
Cornwall Music Service
Trust is excited and proud to launch our Early Years Music initiative.
ToningDrum Offers An Early Learning Music Curriculum for Schools and Teachers
