7 Ways Music Helps Parents and Children bond

May 29, 2024

As we have discussed many times before, music has a special way of bringing people together—and that includes parents and children, of course! There’s something pure and magical about how music captures a child’s attention and connects them with their parents in a way nothing else can. From the first days of a newborn’s life into the toddler years and throughout childhood, music helps parents and children form a bond that lasts a lifetime.

This week, let’s look at seven ways music can help you bond with your little ones.

How Music Helps Parents and Children Bond

Music Soothes

For any parent, but especially those with infants, music is a powerful tool. As anyone who has spent time around babies knows, nothing soothes an unhappy baby quite like music. Sot lullabies and gentle, instrumental melodies calm fussy babies and help them fall asleep more easily. Some parents have even found that playing music during feeding or bath time also creates a peaceful, reduced-stress atmosphere and makes the experience enjoyable for both parent and child.

Music Aids Learning

As a child grows and develops, music becomes an important aid in learning. Simple nursery rhymes and children’s songs have been used for centuries to help young ones remember and learn subjects like language and mathematics.

Furthermore, when children grow a little more, they can begin to learn about different musical genres and even start playing an instrument. Learning about and how to make music is an exciting and interactive way for parents and children to bond; you can explore new genres, artists, and songs together!

Music Boosts Mood

Anyone that has ever listened to music knows that it has a profound impact on mood; this is true for children as well. Playing energetic, upbeat music can lift the mood of any grumpy child, creating a playful environment in your home. On the other side of the coin, playing relaxing music creates a peaceful and calming atmosphere. This can be a handy tool during times of stress or anxiety.

Dance Parties

Undeniably, one of the most fun and interactive ways to use music to bond with your children is by dancing together. Whether it’s just a silly, impromptu dance part in the living room or more structured dance lessons, few things connect parents and children like grooving together! Additionally, dancing doesn’t just offer an opportunity for physical activity; it also encourages creativity and self-expression.

Music Facilitates Memory

One of music’s undeniable superpowers is its ability to trigger memories and the emotions attached to them; this is also true for children! Creating a playlist of music that is meaningful to your family can be a great way to help your children form lasting memories. Add special songs you sing at bedtime or fun dance music you commonly play at family get-togethers, and these musical moments will forever be associated with good times, fond memories, and happy feelings.

Music Is a Language

Not only is music a language, but it’s a universal language that moves beyond all cultural obstacles. Playing music from different cultures and in other languages exposes children to new sounds and ideas. Moreover, they are encouraged to learn about other places and people. Furthermore, singing songs in different languages is a fun way for children to learn new words and phrases and encourages them to learn more about language—including their own!

The Ultimate Shared Experience

But, even with everything else on this list, the most crucial way music helps parents bond with their children is through the shared experience of it. It doesn’t matter if it’s listening to music, singing, dancing, or going to concerts, festivals, and events; it’s all about doing it together. The shared experience of music builds trust, understanding, and critically, communication between parents and children. This feeling of closeness will last a lifetime.

In Conclusion

There’s no denying that music is a potent tool for parents to bond with their children. No matter if it’s soothing, bedtime lullabies, crazy living room dance parties, or carpool karaoke, it’s the shared experience that matters. Music makes finding those shared experiences easy and brings parents and children together to create lasting memories.

So, next time you want to connect with your kids, try putting on some music and see where it can take you!

Want to take your shared musical experience to the next level? Check out our Music Resources for Parents, as well as all our programs and lessons, designed for all ages and skill levels. Sign up today!