Apr 27, 2006 03:53 PM
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(Updated Apr 27, 2006 03:53 PM)
Children instinctively create music when they play. They bang out a rhythm, they create songs, most children love noisemakers. Help them direct that instinctive behavior into something that is a little less jarring to the senses, and will eventually help them attain better grades in school.
Many studies have shown that children who enjoy music do better in school. This doesn't mean that you have to take a college class in music in order to help your child appreciate music. What it does mean though is that you need to spend some time talking about, and listening to a wide variety of music with your child.
If you start when your baby comes home from the hospital. It will become second nature for you and your child to spend some quiet time listening to and enjoying music. Sing along with the radio while changing your child. It doesn't matter if you can't carry a tune in a wet paper bag, what matters is your child hears your voice, and music.
When your child can sit in your lap, clap your hands in time to the music, bounce your knee gently in time to the music. Dance with your child. All of these activities will help your child develop a sense of rhythm.
Play soothing quiet music at nap time and bedtime. This will help show your child how music can soothe and be a comfort. When your child is active, play music with a more pronounced beat, encourage your child to help you choose music that matches the activities going on.
When your child starts to try and sing along, encourage them with praise and don't worry if they don’t have all the words right. Have some fun and make up your own words to different songs. Create a song to celebrate a special event such as writing their name for the first time.
Music is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our unique cultures. Listen to music from other countries occasionally. Try to find the differences in what you customarily listen to. Help your child to find the similarities, and above all celebrate with music.
Deipak
