It Begins as a Baby
If you’ve ever witnessed a baby’s eyes light up when they hear music or even experiment with making sounds by banging on a pan, you’ve witnessed an important part of their early childhood development. In our last blog post, we shared highlights from “To the Beat with Bess,” a joyful outdoor music class where children of all ages (and their grown-ups) moved, shook, danced, and played with instruments.In this post, we want to dig deeper: why is music engagement so important for children—even babies?
Music Builds the Brain
Even before babies are born, their brains are busy forming connections—and music helps accelerate that development. Research shows that musical experiences stimulate the parts of the brain responsible for language, memory, and emotional regulation. Simply listening to music can help infants recognize patterns and rhythms, while active engagement—like clapping, bouncing, or banging a drum—boosts motor coordination and neural growth.
Early Rhythms, Lifelong Skills
When young children engage with music, they’re doing more than just having fun (though that’s important too!). They’re learning to take turns, follow directions, and listen closely—all crucial skills for communication and school readiness. Instruments like shakers, bells, and rhythm sticks also promote fine and gross motor skills.
Music Sparks Emotional Connection
There’s a reason lullabies are a universal part of parenting. Music strengthens the emotional bond between caregiver and child. Singing or moving together to music creates shared joy, reinforces a sense of safety, and nurtures emotional expression. In group settings like “To the Beat with Bess,” music also encourages social connection between children as they mimic, cooperate, and explore together.
It’s Never Too Early—or Too Late
One of the most beautiful things about music is that it’s accessible to all ages. Babies as young as a few months old respond to melody and rhythm. Toddlers thrive on repetition and participation. Preschoolers love singing and storytelling through song. And caregivers benefit too—music time can be a moment of calm, connection, and creativity in the middle of a busy day.
Stay tuned for more updates on upcoming events—because the rhythm never stops, and neither does the learning!
Check out our photos from the latest To the Beat with Bess session!
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