Sharing Music with Infants and Toddlers

03/05/2021

Sharing Music with Infants and Toddlers

The changes we dread most may contain our salvation.
Barbara Kingsolver

"Musical Interactions with Infants and Toddlers," the newest Exchange Reflections, based on an article by Deanne W. Kells, encourages discussion about music as a perfect "serve and return" opportunity. Kells writes:

"Researchers have proven via numerous studies that music has a positive impact on the ability of people to connect with one another. Music positively affects brain pathways that influence empathy, trust and cooperation. Furthermore, scientists believe listening to and creating music increases the release of oxytocin, a neuropeptide that plays a key role in increasing bonding and trust between people.

No wonder it feels so natural to sing lullabies to babies to soothe them. Science supports what parents have instinctively known for centuries: music can calm, express love and foster closeness. It follows that including music as part of serve-and-return further enriches those interactions, making them even more valuable and rewarding."

For more information about Exchange's magazine, books, and other products pertaining to ECE, go to www.ccie.com.