Your child is musical because all children are musical

So many parents and caregivers are under the mistaken impression that children cannot become musical unless they spend lots of money on music lessons. Other parents and caregivers fear that their own perceived lack of musicality dooms their children. King Bullfrog wants to put a stop to this nonsense. This page provides parents and caregivers some tips for how to nurture your child’s natural, innate musicality. 

(Hint: It’s not about any talent they’re born with, and it’s not about lessons. It’s about being a human being.)

Tip #1: The best way to develop your child’s musicality is for your child to see you loving music yourself.

Play music at home and in the car. Any music will do. A rich variety is even better. But to really make this work, take things to the next level by going beyond pushing the “play” button, and SING ALONG! It doesn’t matter how off-key you think you are if you sing with a smile. That teaches your child to be confident and comfortable rather than embarrassed singing. If you play an instrument, play it for your child. Let your child see you practicing. But you don’t even need to play an instrument: just bang on pots and pans, use silverware to drum on the table, or even use your body as a drum.

You are your child’s most important teacher, and all it takes to be a good music teacher is to have music in your home, to make some music, and to show your child you’re loving it. Lessons can wait.

Tip #2: When to start exposing your child to music? Now!

You might be asking: When should I start exposing my child to music? The answer is NOW! Lullabies at home are an ideal starting point. Singing as a naptime and bedtime ritual creates a special bond between you and your child. Not only that, but singing lullabies helps adults reduce stress by releasing natural “happy” hormones in the body. Now that’s useful when the baby’s crying at 4am!

Tip #3: Music helps your child develop.

Conventional wisdom says that learning to play classical music will help your child learn math. As it turns out, research has shown that learning music also has positive effects on language and social development. In fact, music learning—especially with other people—supports learning in all areas of life. 

Tip #4: Children learn rhythm from you.

We feel rhythm, right? Gently tap the beat of a song on your child. Even better, dance with your child so that they can feel the beat through your movements.  Did you know children can learn rhythm with their eyes? Watching you joyfully dancing helps them get the song’s rhythm. As they get old enough, they can even watch you tap a beat and then mimic it. Try it with another adult: have them tap a beat and then see how easy it is for you to follow.

Tip #5: If you’re thinking about music lessons… 

We love music lessons, but we also think it’s important that parents and caregivers not feel pressured to rush in, especially since they can be expensive. Should you want to pursue them, here are some things to keep in mind: Children should already be able to more-or-less sing in tune and keep a rhythm before you start the adventure of lessons (following these tips should help with that). Children should be old enough to handle practicing. Practicing is work, but most children are not ready for that until ages 5 to 7 or even later. Finally, don’t forget to factor in your child’s personality and size when trying to select the right instrument (see this book for guidance). It might even take an instrument or two before you settle on the right one.

Tip #6: Have fun!

Music should be a joy. The more fun you have enjoying music with your child, the greater a gift of music you are giving, and the more developmental benefits you are creating. If only all aspects of raising a child were like that! No matter what your musical skill level is, you are equipped with everything you need to nurture your child’s aptitude for music and its many benefits. Instead of simply sitting your child down with some prerecorded music, sing along. When you hear your child sing, sing back. Go see live music together when it’s safe. Obviously that should include King Bullfrog concerts, y’all!

This project was supported by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities.