The Power of Song: How Singing Benefits Early Childhood Development
Posted on November 24, 2020
by April S
“Music instruction appears to accelerate brain development in young children, particularly in the areas of the brain responsible for processing sound, language development, speech perception and reading skills.”
It’s essential parents and caregivers take advantage of the time period when human brains are the most flexible or plastic. Talk, sing, read, write and play with your child. These five simple acts will encourage the development of healthy early literacy skills.
By far, my favorite activity lately is reading sing-along storybooks to my little one. Her face lights up, she smiles from ear to ear and sings right along.
When people think of sing-along books or rhyming stories the first thought may be nursery rhymes. However, there are so many books that lend themselves to singing along during storytime. Explore the selections below – read them, sing them and have fun!
Sing-Along Stories
Books for Babies and Toddlers:
Moo, Baa, La La La!
By Sandra Boynton
A rhyming book with silly animal characters your baby or toddler will love.
Sing with Me!
By Naoko Stoop
Popular nursery rhymes are brought to life with charming animal characters and beautiful illustrations.
10 Little Kisses
By Taylor Garland
A fun sing-along counting book with rhyming text, animals displaying affection.
Picture Books for Preschool – Grade 2:
There’s a Hole in the Log on the Bottom of the Lake
By Loren Long
The colorful illustrations will draw your child in, and the rhythmic nature of the text will encourage your child to sing-along.
We’ve Got the Whole World in Our Hands
By Rafael Lopez
A beautifully illustrated adaptation of the timeless spiritual with a positive message of unity.
Miss Mary Mack: A Hand-Clapping Rhyme
By Mary Ann Hoberman
Your child will not be able to resist singing along to this whimsical version of the favorite hand clapping rhyme.
Space Song Rocket Ride
By Sunny Scribens
Imaginative story about a group of children and their pet owl going on an imaginary rocket ride around the universe.
That’s What I’d Do
By Jewel
A soothing lullaby celebrating a mother’s love and all the things she would do for child.
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