Research Tells Us
Studies Tell Us
“Physical closeness with a parent provides children an opportunity for what Margaret Mahler called “emotional refueling”, which forms a basis for secure separation, exploration, risk-taking and independence. This closeness can be encouraged through partner activities such as dances, games and relaxation.”
Developing a Child’s Sense of Security Through Music Working with Shy & Withdrawn Children. Jolanta Kalandyk-Gallagher
Australian National University. Early Childhood Connections Journal. (ECMMA) Winter 2003.
Margaret Mahler. On sadness & grief in infancy & childhood: Loss & restoration of the symbiotic love object.
“The first sense to develop in utero is touch, the second is hearing. The outer ear transfers sounds to the brain, while the vestibular system in the inner ear maintains balance.”
“Since the fetus experiences all kinds of movements, the vestibular system is already programmed at birth to expect movement. Movement is necessary for stimulating the nervous system, with vestibular stimulation alerting, but also calming the infant-as in soothing effect that comes from rocking.”
“If we were to use the metronome to monitor our own rocking pulse, we would discover that we spontaneously rock our babies at the same walking rhythm used during the later stages of pregnancy.”
“Rocking is a natural tranquilizer, with the movement reminding the baby of being in the womb. In soothing infants, we introduce cadence and patterning in our voices; we rock, walk and they suck-all forms of rhythmic stimulations associated with the temporal patterning of social interaction.”
“Music starts at the most basic level-with the tom-tom beat of the mother’s heartbeat, rhythmic breathing and rhythmic movements-and this “music” stays in the lives of all human beings until death. Through music and touch, we learn to accept and communicate respectfully with each other.”
“As we experience and learn more about the positive effects of music and touch and as we understand that affective touch combined with music is needed for healthy development and bonding, we realize that the next step is to implement music contact games in early childhood.”
“Hugging is a universal component of songs for little children. Thus, preparing a baby lesson that includes touching, singing and playing is not that difficult. Babies are always interested in sounds, language and music, and they thrive on contact through touch.”
“The challenge lies in well-balanced lessons with contact games, while taking into account the various mother-child relationships. Considerations and accommodation must be provided for the insecure or unattached child that may panic or are easily distracted.” The Power of Music and Touch. The Educational Role of Adults and the Environment-Margre van Gestel-The Netherlands-Early Childhood Connections-Winter 2003
“What happens during the first few months and years of life matters a lot, not because this period of development provides an indelible blueprint for adult well-being, but because it sets either a sturdy or fragile stage for what follows.” Shonkoff, Jack P. & Phillips, Deborah A. (eds.) (2000) From Neurons to Neighborhoods: The Science of E.C. development.
“Infants are musical actors, not just listeners. They are performers, not just a receptive audience…the participation of a child in a shared musicality proves that the forms and feelings of music are consequences of the inherent motives of human vitality.” Trevarthen, Colwyn. Every Child is Musical: The Innate Joy & Pride of Musicality and Learning Music. (2002)
“Studies of communication behaviors in infants clearly demonstrate that musical behaviors are at the core of the social and emotional connections formed between parents and children…We know it’s true that music in early childhood can make a difference in children’s lives. But it’s also important to understand that early music experience can affect people for years to come. Researchers who have investigated the ‘strong memories’ associated with musical experiences indicate the powerful role that music plays in the early stages of life”. Gabrielsson, Alf. Music in Early Childhood: Setting a Sturdy Stage-Donna Brink Fox-Eastman School of Music. Rochester N.Y. Orff Echo. Winter 2003
Research and Articles:
Music as Valuable Tool & What's in it For the Parent
Studies Tell Us
Research Findings & Quotes from Journal of Zero to Three -
The Music Lives of Babies and Families
Mothers are Musical Mentors
Musically Speaking, Did You Know?
