The benefits of music in the early years

Music is a powerful tool in enriching people’s lives. Music is experienced around the world and acts as a universal language. Music can be loved by young and old and can have a deep connection to our feelings, thoughts, emotions and general wellbeing. Music is associated with joy and dance and bringing people together as a form of culture.

In early childhood, music offers a range of opportunities for learning, development and exploration. Musical experiences can activate all parts of the brain and can support children’s language, gross motor, cognitive and social and emotional development. Children process sounds, rhythm, pitch and tempo through musical experiences. They can build on their language skills as they practice singing. Musical instruments encourage motor skills as children learn how to move instruments to make different sounds. As children move their bodies and dance to music they develop gross motor skills, balance and coordination.

Music can be explored through a variety of experiences in the early years. Some examples include:

-          Listening and singing along to nursery rhymes and songs

-          Dancing to music

-          Playing with musical instruments

-          Playing games involving music – musical chairs, musical statues

-          Relaxing or meditating to music

-          Recording music

-          Exploring cultural music, instruments and dance

During daily routines and transitions, music can play a significant role in supporting children’s comfort and behaviours throughout the day. Transition songs can support smooth and enjoyable movements from one activity to another. Similarly, having a pack away song can make the experience of packing away predictable and peaceful for children.

At Sage childcare centre, music is a valued part of our curriculum. In our early education centre we have an exceptional dedicated music space which we call ‘Sounds of Sage’. This space encourages children’s love of music as they explore a variety of instruments, experiment with the recording studio and try on a variety of dance costumes as they enjoy dancing to music.  Our children have endless opportunities to embrace the learning and enjoyment that music has to offer.

At Sage early learning centre we promote music to have a central place in early childhood education and ensure that children benefit from the potential music plays in brain development and learning in the early years.