Features to Read

Over the past 30 years there has been considerable research into child development and, in particular, how music and movement can facilitate children’s learning. There is a huge body of evidence which shows that engaging children in singing and dancing has considerable benefits for their linguistic, numerical, social, emotional and physical development – not to mention the fantastic effects it has on their self-esteem! 

Whilst scientists may debate exactly how music assists the brain to learn, few would dismiss the notion that participating in song and dance is great for kids.  And our MAD class leaders, who see the achievements - not to mention the smiles - of their children everyday, would agree!

If you would like to learn more about the role music and movement has to play in your child’s development, we have put together a list of links below to some of the most informative articles on the web.

Singing Develops Early Literacy Skills

Singing can really give your child's literacy skills a boost. Discover how songs develop speaking and vocabulary with this interesting article from Scholastic, click here>>>

Children are born to move!

Recent research suggests that babies are born with an innate ability to move rhythmically to a beat, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America (15 March 2010).

A very interesting article on the importance of movement for integrated learning.  Contrary to the popular belief that children should sit quietly to learn, this article points out that children best understand new concepts when they physically engage with them e.g. adding and subtracting is reinforced by clapping or stamping, while to understand the concept of big and small making such shapes with their bodies really helps. >>> moving and learning article

This report from the University of Edinburgh on the role of music in child development shows that babies, even in the womb, respond to music. It goes on to explain that music can stimulate cognitive growth of young children and discusses the controversial ‘Mozart Effect.’ >>> University of Edinburgh report 

Get kids involved in music groups!

This really clear and concise article explains why involving your pre-school  child in an organised musical group can be so beneficial. >>> families magazine article

Music is fun, creative and helps learning. That is why in every culture music is central to early child development.  But what kind of music should children be engaging in - playgroups, learning an instrument, choirs?  The choices available are evaluated here. >>> bbc features item

Mozart makes us more intelligent?!

There has been much debate about the ‘Mozart Effect’. Can it really improve a child’s IQ? This article explains what the debate is about and evaluates the arguments on both sides. >>> bbc features item

Read this article to find out more about the research being done in America to prove that classical music is good for the brain! >>> bbc news item

Music and dance help kid’s brains develop!

A really interesting article describing some of the studies that have been carried out world wide into the effects music can have on the brain and its ability to learn.>>> bbc news item

This page gives a quick overview of the benefits of children learning music. >>> bbc article

This article explains how music and dance can aid children’s development at different stages of their lives. It identifies social, emotional and intellectual benefits of engaging young children in rhythm, rhyme and action songs. It also has great tips for introducing your children to more music and dance at home. >>> nncc item

It seems that music and singing isn’t just beneficial for literacy skills.  As this article explains, there is a growing belief that engaging with music can develop mathematical skills as well.  Listening to the patterns created by rhythm and pitch can help similar pattern-based activities such as computation and spatial awareness. If that’s not enough, it points out that there is a link between the structure of the brain and music which could have implications for all types of learning. >>> todaysparents article 

If you want to delve a little deeper into the science behind music and brain development, then you will find many links to useful articles here. >>> parenting article

Another short article suggesting that music aids children’s numerical understanding. >>> bbc news article

Music should be for everyone!

Everyone should be able to participate in music. It is one of life’s great pleasures and offers fantastic benefits to all. Read here about some new initiatives that are making music more accessible to even the most physically disabled people. >>> bbc features item

Music nurtures babies!

Any parent knows that babies respond to music. Read this article to discover the extraordinary ways in which music can influence a new born child. >>> bbc news item

Did you know that all babies are born with perfect pitch? This article explains why and what happens to that skill as children start to grow.>>> bbc news item

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