Music has a special way of bringing people together, especially parents and their kids. It helps build a strong bond that makes kids feel safe and loved. This emotional connection, called attachment, helps kids grow up feeling secure and confident. It also helps them learn to handle their emotions and build healthy relationships. Babies rely on their parents from the start to meet their needs and create a safe, caring space.
Music creates moments that bring parents and kids closer while also helping kids learn. It boosts language skills, coordination, and emotional understanding. Most importantly, music shows your child that your relationship is a source of comfort, happiness, and security. Here’s how you can use music to strengthen your bond and help your child grow:
Lullabies
Singing lullabies has been a way to comfort babies for a long time. The gentle rhythm and the sound of a parent’s voice help babies feel safe. Research shows that lullabies can lower stress in babies and help them relax and fall asleep. When you sing to your baby, they’re comforted not just by the music, but by your voice and attention. This special moment builds trust and makes them feel secure.
Singing Together
Singing with your child is a fun way to connect. Whether you make up silly songs or sing along to your favorite tunes, it’s something you can enjoy together. For little kids, singing helps with language development and is a playful way to talk. As you sing, you share smiles and laughter, which helps build your bond. Singing together shows your child that spending time with you is not just comforting but also fun.
Movement and Music
Music makes you want to move, and dancing with your child is a great way to stay close. Whether you’re rocking with your baby or having a dance party with your toddler, moving to music releases feel-good hormones like oxytocin, known as the "bonding hormone." Dancing lets your child explore their world while feeling your support. It’s a fun way to grow your connection and make lasting memories.
Music for Emotional Expression
Music helps kids express and handle their feelings, even before they can talk. Babies and toddlers react to the mood of music—calm songs can relax them, while upbeat tunes can make them happy. As kids get older, music can help them show their emotions, whether they’re feeling excited, sad, or frustrated. Sharing music with your child helps them understand and manage their feelings. This strengthens your connection and builds empathy.
Using music every day with your child is a powerful way to connect and help them grow. Whether you’re singing lullabies, making up songs, dancing, or using music to express feelings, each moment with music builds your bond. Embrace the magic of music to make lasting memories and fill your relationship with love, comfort, and joy. By making music a part of your parenting, you’re helping your child and strengthening your bond with them.
References:
Parents as Teachers Parent Educator Handout titled "Helping Parents Share Music With Their Child"
Parents as Teachers Parent Handout titled "Making Music with your Baby"
About the author:
Maggie VanDyne has been a member of the Bright Beginnings team since early 2022 serving in the role of Parent Support Supervisor. Her previous work experience included over 15 years of work with children and families. Her experience has spanned work in early childhood education, clinical counseling services, and the development and implementation of trauma-informed practices and policies in service of children and families. She is passionate about advocacy focused on health equity; serving on lead safe subcommittees for over five years and collaborating with medical and community providers to increase awareness about lead exposure throughout Cuyahoga County. Maggie is the mother of two girls; both of whom love to play outside, dance to music, and watch as much TV as their mother will allow.