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Music & its love affair with Math

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Posted by Your Guide on March 1, 2006 8:33 PM

When your baby is asleep in their crib or playing in the playpen, play simple music that has been written and recorded for babies. These simple melodies speak to the innate sense of rhythm that each child has and prepares their brains for the early math skills that will blossom during their preschool years. You might want to consider a toy that safely attaches to the crib that can be turned on when your baby by touches it. (Note: Only place toys that are approved for that purpose in the crib with your baby.)

It also benefits your baby to expose them to classical music of all kinds. Fast or slow, melodic or driven, the intricate melodies and rhythms of classical music expand their brains and may later be shown to improve math and higher thinking skills. As your baby is falling asleep, or playing in their crib just after they have awakened, play soft, soothing music that helps them fall asleep and wake up at their own pace. Save the upbeat, peppy music for playtime.

When your baby or preschooler is awake and playing, play music that encourages them to tap with the beat. Any music that you both enjoy will be fun, but remember that babies and toddlers do not usually appreciate loud or sudden noises, so keep the volume down to a pleasant level, and sing along with them. Arrange a set of plastic bowls in front of them and let them tap on the bowls with a plastic or wooden spoon. Play with your child as they play, adding your own rhythms, as well as tapping in time with the music.

There are many CD’s and tapes made especially for our younger ones that not only are enjoyable to listen to, but that also teach concepts through the words of the songs. These songs can teach math, letters, sounds, even foreign language. As long as your baby enjoys listening to the music, play it for him or her.

As enjoyable as it is, music is based on math and our babies’ brains understand this relationship. So make music available at appropriate times and your whole family will benefit from it.



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