You probably already know that music education is proven to be an incredible asset in the development of children. But did you know that important music fundamentals can be taught at home? Many parents think the benefits kids get from music education happens only within formal music lessons or at school, but in reality, a strong music educational foundation starts at home.
The efforts you make to introduce music to your child when they’re young will make a big impact on their musical development throughout their lives. If you’re interested in enrolling your child in music lessons, introducing them to music first is essential. This applies whether you’re an experienced musician or can’t hold a pitch to save your life.
Why you shouldn’t wait for music teachers to teach your child music fundamentals
If you’re not an especially musical person, the thought of teaching music to your child probably sounds a little crazy. But instead of teaching your child how to play a virtuosic Rachmaninoff piano concerto, introducing music fundamentals is fun and easy.
You might not be able to play an instrument, but you can surely clap your hands along to a beat and sing along to “Happy Birthday.” Some parents find it hard to believe that they’re musical, but all adults are. However, young children need help to develop their musical chops.
Clapping in a steady rhythm sounds simple, but it’s completely foreign to young children. Experienced instructors can and frequently do teach students basic music fundamentals like how to clap and sing, but kids can easily learn these basics at home. Students who aren’t familiar with these basics begin their musical journeys at a significant deficit.
No matter what musical path a child takes, they’ll need to understand music to succeed. Parents are far better off doing it themselves at home because it helps their kids and ultimately saves them money when they begin lessons.
How parents can introduce basic musical fundamentals to their kids
Clap, sing, or throw a rowdy dance party. These are just a few of the ways parents can help their young children begin to develop musically. Trained musicians aren’t the only ones who are free to explore music. By doing it in a fun and instructional way, parents of every musical background can introduce music to their kids.
Fun ways to explore music with your kids:
Be your own band. Encourage your child to play along to the rhythm of their favorite songs and show them how. Choose songs with simple rhythms that are easy to follow, like The Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine.” Then, teach your kids how to clap, stomp, and play with the beat. To make things fun, get creative and use household items to make noise with like pots and pans and mason jars filled with dry beans or rice.
Sing your hearts out. Singing is crucial for helping children to develop their sense of pitch and rhythm. Pick familiar songs your child loves or choose a playlist, album, or collection of easy singalongs to sing along with.
Explore Orff Schulwerk instruments and exercises. Orff Schulwerk is an early music education philosophy that embraces play, imitation, and creativity. Parents lead children through musical exercises using simple instruments with fun and expression as their focus.
What else do they need to be prepared for music lessons?
When kids show up to music lessons knowing how to clap in rhythm, sing, and imitate simple musical ideas, they’ll have a strong musical foundation to start with. However, this doesn’t mean they’ll be completely prepared to learn.
Your child needs a metronome to practice with at home no matter what they learn in music lessons. These come in standalone devices or convenient apps available for download on smartphones and tablets.
If your child learns a stringed instrument like a guitar or cello, they’ll need a tuner to make sure they’re instrument is properly tuned. Tuners are available as standalone devices, or through handy free internet-based platforms.
For kids who want to perform music from their favorite artists, songbooks are a must. Physical books are great, but there’s also a growing list of helpful apps and digital platforms that can teach your child their favorite songs.
Music accessories are hugely important if your child plays an instrument. From drumheads to guitar strings to reeds and rosin, music accessories are critical for allowing instruments to generate sounds. Your child will also need a stand and case to ensure the safety of their instrument.
MUSIC LESSONS AT MUSIC & ARTS
Music & Arts is proud to be the nation’s leading provider of private music lessons. Whether you’re looking for great guitar lessons for your child or for yourself, we’re committed to helping you and your loved ones thrive through the magic of music. Learn more about music lessons at Music & Arts today!
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