From singing to baby, to dancing with baby, to exploring sounds and sound production with baby, music can be incorporated in practically every part of a baby’s daily routine. Not only does this encourage her optimal growth and development, but also above all, can enhance powerful bonding between you and your baby.
There are endless ways that parents can best expose their baby to music. Here are few tips and suggestions.
Best music for babies
1. Classical Music. Mozart is a good start, and is the most recommended form of classical music for babies due to its organized patterns, sequences and harmonies.
2. Soothing Nature Sounds. Many CD’s are now available that are compilations of sounds of nature, sometimes also combined with classical music. These can also be incredibly soothing and relaxing for baby.
3. Classic Lullabies. Of course, classic lullabies to help calm and soothe baby are recommended, even just instrumental versions are better. Be sure to find cd’s whose tracks are professionally recorded from real instruments, and not overly-synthesized or digitally manufactured.
4. Nursery Rhymes. The same rule applies here. It is important to have babies listen to lullabies and nursery rhymes that are well-recorded by professional singers (and not the standard high-pitched singing models that are often heard on mass-produced cd’s). Try looking in quality baby specialty stores for these versions – you’ll know the difference when you hear soothing, calming voices singing on a cd and which vary from song to song; rather than high-pitched, almost screeching voices that often are heard at a very fast singing rate on more quickly produced cd’s.
Make music part of every day routines
Mozart is just one of the many ways you can introduce your child to the amazing world of rhythm, sound and patterns. Here are ways to finetune her ability to hear and appreciate music, every hour of the day. Use these, along with other baby games, to develop your child’s brain and your bond.
1. Listen to a variety of quality recorded music at home and while running errands in the car
2. Sing familiar songs or make up your own songs while you play or when working around the house
3. Take time to listen to all the interesting sounds in your environment – imitate nature sounds while out for a walk
4. Explore sounds with homemade instruments like pots and pans, spoons, and shakers
5. Create family music making opportunities in which everyone plays along. Include all your talents, from playing simple spoons or varied instruments, to gathering around the piano
6. Dance to music from the radio, television, or any other source you enjoy
7. Use simple props such as scarves, balls and hoops to play movement games then add a favorite song
8. If you know someone who plays an instrument, plan a visit so your child can see, touch and hear that special instrument
9. Make music part of your child’s bedtime routine or any routine (bathing, cooking, cleaning) – lullabies are particularly soothing and calming
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