Music is the language of the spirit. It opens the secret of life bringing peace, abolishing strife.
– Kahlil Gibran (1883-1931), Lebanese-American writer, poet

Children’s love of music is a joy to observe, and making music with young children beginning at birth helps them develop essential skills such as language, social skills, self-regulation, and coordination. In “Five Easy Ways Music Can Support a Child’s Development,” Lauren Guilmartin offers these ideas:

1. Help Children Learn Through Imitating
Children are wired to imitate what they see and hear. Songs like “Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes” and “If You’re Happy and You Know It” are perfect for imitation activities. Rhythm sticks or fingers can be used to explore different ways to play and move to the beat.

2. Support Language Development by Singing Songs Without Words
Singing without words allows children to focus on music without worrying about lyrics. Songs like Shirley Ellis’s “The Name Game” or the classic “Brahms’ Lullaby” sung on “doo” help children articulate different sounds and syllables.

3. Develop Bilateral Coordination Through Dance
Bilateral coordination involves using both sides of the body together. Songs with great beats like The Chieftains’ “Boil the Breakfast Early” and Chubby Checker’s “The Twist” are ideal for dance activities that support brain development.

4. Support Self-Regulation with Call-and-Response Songs
Call-and-response songs help children develop self-regulation by requiring them to pay attention and wait for their turn. Songs like “Miss Mary Mack” and “Rhythms and Rhymes” foster cooperation and group process.

5. Enhance Emerging Math Skills with Contrasting Songs
Children learn through contrasts such as big/small, loud/soft, and fast/slow. Songs like The Laurie Berkner Band’s “We Are the Dinosaurs” and “Don Alfredo Baila” provide excellent opportunities for experiencing contrasts and developing early math skills.