Music is everywhere and can influence us and enrich our lives, even when we’re young. Scientists believe that while still inside the womb, a baby can hear music and respond with movement. Not only can music provide a wonderful reason to smile but it can strengthen a bond between parent and child or care provider and kids, as they share the joy of a song or the beauty of a melody. And kid music is one interest that doesn’t have to break the family piggy bank. So how do you get started?
1. Sing Your Heart Out
Let your child hear you sing, even if you can’t carry a tune in a bucket. The sound of your voice will please your child and give him the courage to belt out a favorite kid music song of his own. Try singing a childhood standard, one of your favorite rock ‘n roll ditties or make up something as you go along. It doesn’t matter as long as you are enthusiastic and enjoying the moment. 2. Listen To The Beat
Almost everything in life has a beat or rhythm to it. At the park, point out the beat of the basketball bounce or the creak of the swings as they go back and forth. Show your child how to use his hands or voice to mimic those rhythmic serenades. As you walk down the street, make a beat with your footsteps, and then ask your child to copy it with his next steps. Just use a creative kid music approach and youngsters will take it on.3. Break Out The Kid Music Band
If you have instruments available, let your child experience what it’s like to play them. Even if the result is less than “music to your ears,” the musical moment will build her self-confidence and expand her imagination. A kitchen band of pot, pans and cooking utensils can bring out the ham in even the most reserved child. 4. Widen Your Musical Horizons
If you usually listen to country in the car or around the house, try some oldies or the classical station for a change. Take your child to a concert in the park, a performance by the high school band or check out some CDs at the library and listen to them together. 5. Get On Down The Road
Road trips or other times in the car present opportunities for a family sing-a-long or a name-that-tune game. Take along prerecorded CDs of music from movies or a DVD of sing-a-long songs if you have a player in your car. Belting out old kid music favorites like "Row Your Boat" or "Bingo" can do more than entertain. They encourage listening while singing, sequencing and boost memory skills.6. Give An 'A' For Effort
Not every child has a voice like an angel or the musical ability of Mozart but enthusiastic participation deserves plenty of praise. Whether a child is born with incredible musical talents or not, he can enjoy music if he feels the confidence to participate with joy. Who hasn't heard kids or adults who can’t quite sing in tune or reach the needed notes but make up for it with the enjoyment they project? And, in the end, who really cares if it makes their heart sing as well?7. Bestow The Gift of Sound
A love of music is a wonderful gift that we can all bestow upon each child we know. Some of the best childhood memories can be those involving kid music, from the family singing together in worship to the thrill of learning a new instrument. With a simple whistle or hum, we can elicit a smile, tapping toe or other gleeful response. If you don’t believe it, try whistling your child’s favorite song and see what happens!
