Music gets kids moving to the beat while providing an enjoyable auditory experience. According to Kids Health, participating in music activities may help your child focus, achieve better in school, improve self-esteem and play well with others. Music activities for kids take on many forms, from simply listening to music to singing and playing instruments. Age-appropriate music activities give your child an introduction to musical concepts and will possible spark her interest in studying music in the future.
Step 1
Sing songs to your child starting from a young age. Sing a variety of songs, including your favorite childhood songs, which allows you to pass on your heritage.
Step 2
Play different styles of music frequently. Encourage your child to dance or sing along in a way that makes sense to her. Listen to music at home and in the car for frequent exposure.
Step 3
Demonstrate how to make music with objects around the house. Tap a rhythm on the side of the pan before you cook dinner or open and close the door to a certain beat.
Step 4
Make up songs about things you are doing or things you see in the environment. Encourage your child to sing along or create his own songs to make music more relevant and accessible. This shows him that anyone can create music, not just a professional musician or songwriter.
Step 5
Play musical instruments at home, either real or homemade. Let your child explore the different sounds that an instrument makes by playing it in different ways. Practice playing the instruments to the beat of a song or to a rhythmic story you read.
Step 6
Perform musical concerts at home using the instruments. Offer encouraging words to your child for her musical efforts.
Step 7
Take your child to live musical performances, which are often available during summer festivals at parks and other open venues. For young children, choose performances that allow the kids to get up and move around rather than making them sit and listen quietly.
Step 8
Sign up for music classes specifically for children, such as Kindermusik. Look for music classes through your child's school, your local community center or art centers in your area. Private music lessons are a more formal option.
