Don’t stop the music

Children learn about rhythm and other aspects of music by experiencing different musical styles. They learn how music makes them feel and how to express these feelings. Listening to live music teaches children about being part of an audience. 

 What do I need?

• Music – from the radio, your music collection, online or a live performance, if you have the opportunity.   
• Drawing or writing materials.  

 How do I do it?

1. Ask your child to get ready to listen to a whole lot of different music.
2. Over time, listen with them to various forms of music – from rock to jazz; classical to country!  Explore the music of particular countries, too. There’s no hurry. Introduce new music as it suits you.
3. Talk to your child about how the music makes them feel. Do they particularly like any of the styles of music? Do any make them want to dance?
4. Ask your child to respond to the music with dance, drawing or writing, or any other way they feel inspired. 

No-one knows your child better than you.  So, choose and/or adapt ideas here to best suit you and your child. Remember it’s the talking and time spent together that matters most.