Why is Music Important for Children’s Development?

Musical intelligence can be developed over time through exposure to music. It is an important part of childhood learning and can help children share across communication and developmental barriers.

Babies will often enjoy music and songs that incorporate touch, faces, steady rhythms, simple repetitions, one-to-one games and tunes that calm and make them feel safe. They respond to regular movements like swaying, rocking and bouncing to music.

Toddlers will often enjoy musical experiences that allow them to use their large movements, feel parts of the song when they hear their name added, interactive music games using finger puppets, scarves and other props with music. Pre-schoolers will enjoy the same musical experiences you offer to babies and toddlers. Above all, there is a growing interest in group games that challenge their developmental social skills. They also enjoy using their more advanced gross and fine motor skills to respond to music with different actions. They can help make props for musical activities and stories as well as create their own performances to share with others.