Many people enjoy activities related to music, whether it’s listening, playing an instrument, or moving along to songs. But music is far beyond a source of entertainment; it has a significant role in children’s development and education.
Music can help shape young minds by fostering emotional intelligence and contributing to cognitive growth. Given the influence of music on learning, many parents are looking into educational institutions that provide this kind of education.
In Singapore, many schools integrate music programs into their curricula. One example is Kinderland, which is known to have a music-infused approach to education. Kinderland’s curriculum emphasizes the vital role of music in language literacy and holistic child development, and as such, children are exposed to music early on.
Their Children’s Music Programme, guided by professional instructors, engages children aged 3 to 4 with activities like singing, rhymes, rhythmic movement, music stories, and ensemble playing. Those aged 5 and 6, on the other hand, receive weekly keyboard lessons.
These are activities that you might be able to appreciate better by visiting Kinderland on Instagram and seeing the kids in action. If this type of pedagogy is something you feel your child will also benefit from and enjoy, consider exploring the impact of music on early childhood education.
Cognitive Development
During the formative years of a child’s life, their cognitive development lays the groundwork for future learning. Music’s intricate patterns and rhythms have been proven to help in this area of learning, enhancing memory and recall in children. Whether it’s learning the lyrics of a song or internalizing the beat of a drum, music provides a unique cognitive workout.
Furthermore, exposure to a variety of musical styles aids in language development. Music expands a child’s linguistic capabilities and also allows them to foster a love for diverse forms of expression.
Emotional Development
Beyond the cognitive realm, music also often becomes a playground for emotional exploration. Melodies and lyrics serve as conduits for children to understand and express a range of emotions, and children can explore various musical instruments and materials for creative expression.
Additionally, it can be a way for children to enhance their social skills. Group music activities, such as singing or creating compositions together, help nurture socio-emotional intelligence, which is crucial for later life. These experiences also lay a crucial foundation for building empathy among peers.
Motor Skills Enhancement
It can also enhance children’s fine and gross motor skills. Playing musical instruments, after all, requires tactile elements. In the case of touching the keys of a piano or keyboard, it helps with a child’s dexterity. When they rhythmically pound a tambourine, it contributes to enhancing their hand-eye coordination.
When it comes to children’s gross motor skills, it also enhances experiences so that they become more insightful and fun. Activities like dance and movement allow children to establish a foundation for physical literacy. Whether it’s swaying to a lullaby or participating in a lively dance, children get to refine their coordination and balance.
Cultural Awareness
It can also become a bridge that connects children to different traditions. This is very important, especially in a culturally rich country like Singapore. Once you introduce children to a spectrum of musical styles, it fosters an appreciation for cultural diversity.
One example of applying this is by introducing weekly themes to children based on different musical genres. Each week can focus on a specific style of music, encouraging exploration and cultural appreciation. This approach also broadens children’s exposure to diverse musical traditions.
Music Introduction at Every Age
How you introduce music to children will vary based on their age. For infants, they are highly receptive to sensory stimuli. So, it’s best to introduce soft, soothing music during tummy time to stimulate their auditory senses. You can also opt for calming melodies with gentle rhythms to create a serene environment for sensory exploration and relaxation.
When it comes to introducing music to toddlers, encouraging them to move is one of the best ways to do it. Play lively songs and let them dance. You can also provide simple instruments, like shakers or tambourines, for them to explore rhythm through movement. This interactive approach encourages the development of coordination and a sense of timing.
If you want to encourage children to play an instrument, it’s best to do so once they reach the age of five. The reason for this is that they need to be able to comfortably hold the instrument and have the strength to play it. It’s also when they’re old enough to pay attention to music lessons.
Incorporating Music into the Daily Lessons
While music can be a powerful tool to enhance learning among young children, integrating it into subjects is one challenge teachers need to continuously overcome. Ideally, they need to reinforce concepts in a creative way that appeals to young learners.
In the case of presenting mathematical concepts, an effective way to do it is through rhythm and patterns. On the other hand, language skills can be enhanced through exploration of song lyrics and storytelling. These teaching methods help create a dynamic learning experience for young learners.
It is more than a form of entertainment. It’s a valuable tool in a child’s cognitive and motor skill development. In Singapore, many schools have embraced the relationship between music and early childhood education.
They incorporate music-related activities and nurture a love for music and creativity in children of all ages. Such an approach creates a good foundation for a child’s educational journey.