Tutu Talk

Music – The Universal Language

Community Contributed

Column by Tutu and Me

It is important to note that children’s perception of music follow their development. For example, newborn babies begin life by developing trust versus mistrust in the environment. They are soothed by quiet singing and rocking, which helps them formulate trust. They are frightened by scary sounds, which lead to mistrust.
By the time a child reaches ages two to three, they show increased language development, and can jump, run and walk to music. At this age, children learn and enjoy action songs.

Children use songs and rhythms to communicate their thoughts and feelings. Music heightens children’s listening skills. Music fosters a positive self-image by helping children feel successful in musical activities. Many songs focus on children.

At Tutu and Me Traveling Preschool, we give children many opportunities to explore music through singing, dancing, playing instruments, and creating bodily movements.

Try This at Home:
•    Sing familiar songs with your child every day
•    Make a homemade kazoo – secure wax paper at one end of a toilet paper roll with a rubber band. Blow through the open end while humming a tune.
•    Make a homemade tambourine – place rice or beans between two paper plates, secure the edges of the plates with tape. Shake the tambourine with one hand or tap it with the heel of the other hand. Beware of the choking hazard of the beans.
•    Make a homemade drum – cover and decorate the outside of an empty coffee can. Replace the lid and beat with hands or wooden spoons.
•    Make homemade sand blocks – glue coarse sand paper to two smooth blocks of wood. Rub the blocks together to make music.
•    Play classical music for you and your child. Bach is a good choice.
•    Dance to music with your keiki.

Remember: Music is important in the lives of children
Contributions from Tutu and Me Traveling Preschool, a program of Partners in Development Foundation.  Tutu and Me is funded through a grant from the U.S. Department of Education.