Music

Benefits
Music is an important part of any day for young children because it is a natural source of enjoyment which can be used to enhance all areas of children's development.

Through singing, creative movement, use of instruments and listening to music for appreciation children have the chance to develop:

• Body and spatial awareness, motor skills and co-ordination.
• Their senses as a learning medium. e.g. understanding concepts: beat, rhythm; discriminating between different sounds/tempos
• Communication and intellectual skills. e.g. name association; concepts of number, space, time; increased vocabulary; ability to follow verbal, instrumental and sound instructions.
• Creativity and imagination.
• Greater understanding and enjoyment of language, literature and art.
• Positive attitudes to learning, sharing and skills of social interaction.

Music for Babies (0-1 years)

• Music for babies involves lots of listening and exploration. Give your little one musical shakers, rattles, bells, drums and encourage them to play. Put on some music in the background for your baby to begin getting used to hearing different sounds.
• Most importantly - sing to your baby. Babies love the sound of their carer's voice, so don't be put off if you think your voice is better not heard, your baby will love it because it is you! It also helps to foster a wonderful bond with your child and provides face-to-face learning and play time.