Music and Movement

In the womb, a baby lives in sync with its mother's heartbeat, hearing and feeling the sound and emotion of her voice.

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After birth, the baby's voice becomes its first instrument.

Initially used to demand milk, the baby gradually begins to experiment, play, and create its own sounds.

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By four months, babies can recognize facial expressions and interpret emotions. Laughter soon follows, signaling the beginning of exploration through play and sound. At six months, babies recognize and respond to songs with movement, using toys to shake, rattle, and bang.

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As children, our voices and other instruments are used to express feelings and serve as important learning tools. They teach us patterns, rhythms, rhymes, and structures without the complexity of language. Additionally, they teach us how humans bond and express emotion, provide pleasure, and encourage imagination and storytelling.

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The meaning of music and dance is not reliant on language. Our initial response to music is through body movement. Babies start creating their own choreography even in the womb, as they practice stretching, kicking, and hitting movements, while small children become completely absorbed in the physical sensation of movement.

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In our fast-beat and busy lifestyles, we can easily get swept up in the convenience of technology. As it’s all too easy to pop something entertaining on our phones, iPads or TV.

But the real magic and connections in the brain spark IMMENSELY when children are engaged with another human being.

Music and Movement stimulates the brain in such a positive way that it’s important to remember to sing and dance a little bit more with our babies.

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Things you can do at home:

• Make your own instruments; recycle objects with rice or seeds to make shakers. Formula tins to make drums etc.

• Create your own music box with different instruments.

• Spend time singing everyday with your little one.

• Start introducing action songs so your child can hear and practice the movements.

• Check out any local music and movement groups within the community.

• Limit screen time where possible.

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Here are a few reasons why music and movement is so important!

• Enhances the ability to differentiate sounds

• Helps develop fine motor skills

• Provides opportunities for problem- solving and decision making

• Provides insight and assists the adult in understanding the child

• Develops self-relaxation and regulation skills

• Illustrates cause and effect

• Stimulates the part of the brain that learns

• Develops an appreciation for individuality

• Strengthens self-concept and self confidence

• Increases self-understanding

• Provides a means of communication and expression

• Serves as an emotional release

• Heightens aesthetic awareness and sensitivity

• Develops and promotes creative thinking

• Assists the development of physical coordination and body awareness

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