Selecting Music for Kids
Music can aid in child development in a multitude of ways, but what are some things you should consider when selecting music for kids? Before diving into the type of music we first need to understand how a child might interact with music. Children learn more by actually doing something rather than simply listening (though listening is not bad). So, if a song is interactive in that it inspires movement then that will be beneficial to a child. Of course, any song can be made interactive. Dancing and singing to a song can be powerful ways to help a child in their development. Creating music, though more involved, can help foster creativity in a child.
As far as selecting music goes, you’ll want to find child-friendly music, as well as music that helps instill values or cultural aspects that you are trying to teach the child. Be sure to mix up the music you expose the child to. Simply listening to the same songs over and over again can become dull. You can also use this opportunity to expand the child’s musical genre library. Try incorporating different styles of music, that way when they get older, they will have a greater appreciation for multiple types of music, as opposed to just one or two.
One thing to keep in mind when selecting music is the attention span of the child, this is particularly true when it comes to longer pieces of music, like a long-orchestrated piece, instead opt for songs that can keep the kid engaged. Pieces of music that only contain one class of instruments (like all strings) are nice, however, they are unlikely to keep the attention of a young child for very long. With these tips in mind, it should be easier to select music for kids that can benefit their development.