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Let's Dance. Why Music is Important for Young Children

Debra Hasbrook, M.Ed.

Debra Hasbrook, M.Ed.

10/30/2014 


Music has benefits for a child’s emotional, physical and academic success. Yet it is often put in the category of just plain fun and creative expression. Which of course it is, but music is much more. 

Children naturally interact with music and some say even before birth. As soon as a child can move they may engage with the music they hear by rocking, bobbing their head, bouncing, dancing, vocalizing or to sooth. There is something so basic, warm and endearing about holding a child while humming or singing softly.  Many children remember information best when it is sung or music is included in the lesson.

Music helps build strong bodies when it is used to get kids moving to the point where their heart rate increases for several minutes. Exercise produces endorphins which support emotional wellbeing, muscle development and spatial awareness. When music is used for group activities or singing together as a group it supports community building and social emotional development. Playing an instrument requires using both sides of the brain simultaneously which supports cognitive growth and helps with reading and math. Playing an instrument, moving or dancing, and finger plays support large and small motor development. Playing an instrument, singing songs, writing lyrics or melodies, following the leader/conductor, works the executive function of the brain. In particular that part of the brain that works with cognitive flexibility, working memory and the speed of processing information.

There is no need to be a great musician yourself. Music is about expression more that competency for the young child. The more enthusiastic you are the more engaged the children will be. You might find you are having as much fun as the children.

Resources:

• Musical Training and Executive Function - http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/827116
  
• Ten Reasons Why your Child should Play a Musical Instrument http://www.sheknows.com/parenting/articles/814331/10-reasons-why-your-child-should-play-a-musical-instrument-1 
  
• Brain Imaging shows Enhanced Executive Brain Function in People with Musical Training http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/06/140617211020.htm
• Musical Training Improves Executive Brain Function http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/278469.php