The Benefits of Musical Education for Children: A Foundation for Learning, Play, and Well-being
Music has long been recognised as a powerful tool for children's development, offering countless benefits that go far beyond just making lovely sounds. From numbers, letters, and spatial awareness to speech development, teamwork, and confidence-building, musical education plays a crucial role in early childhood development.
Music in the Early Years
Children’s experiences with music can begin long before they are even born. Research has shown that babies can recognise songs they heard while in the womb, offering an early form of communication between child and carer. This early connection often lays the groundwork for later learning, as musical play helps children absorb and retain information in an enjoyable and engaging way.
In early years settings, I’ve taught children who initially wouldn’t even meet my gaze. Over time, through the repetition of musical games and songs, I’ve watched them grow in confidence, joyfully joining in with their peers, clapping, singing, and grinning from ear to ear. Each week, through counting songs, alphabet songs, and playful melodies about colours, animals, and directions, I’ve witnessed these children learning and flourishing. The possibilities for learning through music are practically endless.
Supporting Speech Development
Music can also play a vital role in developing speech, particularly in today’s world where masks and reduced social interaction have made it harder for young children to observe the mechanics of speech. Singing games, with their exaggerated and elongated sounds, help children see and hear how different noises are made. Clapping, tapping, and using instruments to create rhythm and pulse also enable children to make important connections between their bodies and minds, fostering motor skills and coordination.
Health and Happiness Through Music
It’s not just about learning—music is also good for our overall well-being. Studies suggest that singing can boost the immune system, release feel-good endorphins, and reduce cortisol, the stress hormone. That’s why singing along to a favourite tune or having a mini kitchen percussion session can brighten your mood as much as it enhances your child’s skills.
Choosing the Right Musical Instruments
When choosing instruments for young children, it’s essential to focus on quality and variety. Clear, distinct sounds and a range of textures and tones can help children explore music more fully. One of my favourite sets for early years is the TickiT Percussion Set, made from smooth beechwood that feels as good as it looks. Designed for little hands, this sturdy set includes ten different instruments and a handy zip-up storage bag.
I’ve also got my eye on the TickiT Sensory Reflective Sound Buttons, Sensory Reflective Sound Balls, and Sound Prism Set. These add a sensory element to musical play, with their unique textures, reflective surfaces, and varied sounds sparking curiosity and encouraging discussions. Children love guessing what the sounds remind them of—whether it’s bells, tambourines, or triangles.
Making Music at Home
While a well-designed set can be a great starting point, you don’t need fancy instruments to bring music into your child’s life. Everyday items can become exciting instruments:
- Pots and pans paired with wooden spoons make for brilliant drums.
- Elastic bands stretched over a hollow cardboard box create a satisfying twang when safely plucked.
- Pasta shapes inside used bottles make excellent shakers.
Why Music Matters
Whether it’s through a homemade shaker, a tambourine, or a simple round of clapping games, musical education provides children with so much more than just entertainment. It enhances spatial awareness, fosters teamwork, supports speech and language development, and, most importantly, makes us all feel happy and connected.
So, however you choose to introduce music into your child’s world—whether through structured lessons, spontaneous kitchen jam sessions, or playful singing games—do it boldly, joyfully, and often. Music is a gift that can enrich their lives in ways you might not yet imagine.