If your child has played with a toy instrument or listened to a familiar song, you’ve probably seen his face light up or his body sway back and forth in enjoyment. Music is fun for young children and helps them develop creativity, fine motor skills, vocabulary, and self-esteem.

In the classroom, our youngest learners explore the exciting world of music as they learn to create and respond to sounds. As they grow, they sing songs, move to music, and recognize changes in tone, tempo, volume and rhythm.

Below are some fun activities that you can do with your child at home.

Infants/Toddlers:

• Turn on soft rhythmic music and hold your baby securely against your chest. Dance slowly and smoothly around the room. For older infants, provide musical toys to play along with the music once you are finished dancing.
• Insert your baby’s name into the song, “Where is Thumbkin?” Where is (baby’s name)? Where is (baby’s name)? Here I am. Here I am. (Gently tap your baby as you say the words). How are you today, (baby’s name)? Very well, I thank you. Clap your hands. Clap your hands. (Help your baby clap his hands.)

Beginners/Intermediates (2 years – 4 years):

• Sing a familiar song with your child. When you get to a portion of the song that is repeated, pause and listen to whether he can fill in the missing words.
• Play different genres of music and encourage your child to describe each song. Ask questions such as, “Is this music fast or slow?” or “Do you like this song? Why or why not?”

Pre-K/Pre-K 2 (4 years – 5 years):

• Turn on the radio and ask your child to describe each song’s tempo. Listen for words such as fast, slow and quick.
• Encourage movement and creativity by providing your child with a box of dress-up clothes for him to wear. Turn on music and let him dance and sing while putting on different costumes. Add props, such as toy instruments, balls or hoops.