Music is a universal language that resonates with children’s hearts and minds, offering a joyful pathway to learning and self-expression. From lullabies to sing-alongs, music plays a vital role in early childhood development. At Children’s Discovery Center, our Reggio Emilia-inspired curriculum emphasizes the importance of holistic development, and music plays a vital role in fostering creativity, critical thinking and emotional expression among our early learners.

The Importance of Music in Early Childhood Development

Music is more than an art form; it is a powerful tool for learning. Engaging with music helps children develop a range of skills that are essential for their growth:

• Cognitive Development: Music encourages pattern recognition, memory and language development. Singing songs and playing instruments require children to remember lyrics and melodies, strengthening their cognitive abilities.

• Motor Skills: Playing instruments and moving to music helps enhance fine and gross motor skills. Activities like drumming or dancing require coordination and control, promoting physical development.

• Social Skills: Group music activities, such as singing or playing instruments together, foster cooperation and communication among children. These acts allow them to learn to listen to each other and work together, building essential social skills.

• Emotional Expression: Music provides a safe space for children to express their feelings. Whether they are singing a joyful tune or playing a sad melody, music helps them explore and articulate their emotions.

Integrating S.T.E.A.M. with Music

Combining S.T.E.A.M. principles with music offers exciting opportunities for hands-on exploration and discovery. You can harmoniously blend S.T.E.A.M. and music in your child’s learning experience through these simple activities:

Science

Introduce children to the science behind sound. Experiment with homemade instruments, such as shakers made from rice-filled bottles or drums made from pots, to explore how different materials produce unique sounds. As you play, discuss concepts like pitch, volume and vibration.

Technology

Encourage your child to explore technology by using apps that teach music composition or digital instruments. They can experiment with creating their own songs using software that allows them to layer sounds and rhythms, merging creativity with technology.

Engineering

Challenge your little ones to design and build homemade instruments. Whether it’s a simple maraca or a “ukulele” out of a tissue box and string, this at-home, hands-on engineering exposes them to planning, construction and testing to reinforce problem-solving and critical thinking.

Art

Combine visual arts with music by encouraging children to create artwork inspired by their favorite songs. Join them as you draw, paint or craft while listening to music. This shared time allows your child to express their feelings about and interpretations of the sound visually.

Math

Explore rhythm and patterns in music as a fun way to introduce mathematical concepts. Clap or tap out different rhythms, and have children identify patterns or count beats. This integration helps them see the connection between math and music in an engaging way.

CDC Creates a Harmonious Learning Environment

For more than 40 years, Children’s Discovery Center has helped guide and expand the minds of Toledo’s youngest explorers. Our dedicated staff nurtures children into lifelong learners by providing an innovative environment that promotes self-led discovery. Contact us today to learn more about our Reggio Emilia approach to learning, register your child and tour our facilities.