How to Practice Music with Kids from Birth

Everyone is wired to learn music from birth.

But, we never think about "practicing" with kids right after they're born. That would be silly, right?

Not as silly as you might think.

You know how they learn to talk from hearing you speak? Then, they start copying words? Then, they start forming their own ideas?

We don't wait until babies reach an "appropriate age" before introducing them to language. The magic just happens on its own. Our ability to absorb language is a biological miracle.

The same is true of music.

But...there is a difference between learning language and learning music.

We can't live without talking. There is no avoiding it. Our kids are going to learn to talk because inevitably they're going to hear adults talking on a regular basis.

Not every parent is inclined to sing and dance on the regular. But, this is where the youngest humans receive their first musical experiences.

Sing frequently. Sing in the shower. Sing while playing. Sing while driving. Toy with singing at inappropriate moments.

Your kids will inevitably be able to sing in tune and develop their ear.

Dance. Move around. Be silly. These are the years you can do anything you want and your kids aren't embarrassed to be seen with you yet.

Dance and move to music, and your kids will have a sense of rhythm.

If this isn't natural, make it a daily practice of your own. Go out of your comfort zone. It will be good for you, too.

Even if your kids are older, do it. Be bold. Don't worry about looking weird.

Heck, we made a series of Mrs. Lamb puppet videos. When you're worried about looking weird, just remember that.

This is the beauty of our neurological wiring. The more playing, singing, and moving you can do, the better your kids will be.

In our modern world, it's hard to imagine that playing in the dirt with a stick could be better for a 2-year-old than the latest learning app. But, it's true. We're natural, wired learners.

Now, go! Sing. Dance. Be silly. Do it with your kids, for their future happiness and musical selves.

Come back and share it with us on Instagram.

And yes...we are finally on Instagram...the planet Earth called and said we were missing out.