How can music support my baby?
- Supports the brain in making healthy connections
- Facilitates movement and coordination
- Encourages speech and language development
- Assists in self-regulation and developing soothing strategies
- Nurtures moments of shared joy, attachment and bonding
- Provides opportunities for connecting with others and community support
Check out ‘Getting in Tune: The Powerful Influence of Music on Young Children’s Development’ to learn more!
Early Intervention:
Early Intervention is available to infants and toddlers with disabilities or delays who need a little extra support in meeting developmental milestones. There are many different services that will be tailored to your child’s needs at no out-of-pocket cost to families, and music therapy is an approved service within Early Intervention in Massachusetts.
- To see if your child is eligible for services and to find your local provider visit Mass.gov Early Intervention Division page
- More generalized information on Early Intervention can be found at the following websites:
Community-Based Music Therapy Services:
There are many other programs to support integrating music into your baby’s early childhood experiences that can provide additional community connections. Early childhood music therapy groups, such as Sprouting Melodies®, provide age-specific weekly classes using songs, instrument play and movement to encourage growth for children across the developmental spectrum.
These classes work to strengthen bonds between caregivers and children, as well as boost confidence in caregivers by providing support and knowledge of their child’s development in a music-based setting.
When selecting a community music program, here are some questions you may want to ask:
- What qualifications or experience does the program facilitator have? Do they have experience working with children who are born premature or have developmental delays?
- What are the ages of the other participants in the group?
- How is the music going to be adapted for my baby’s age and needs?
Check out the American Music Therapy Association and Certified Board for Music Therapists websites for up to date community-based programs in your area. If you are near the Wakefield area, consider our Sprouting Melodies Music Classes at Roman Music Therapy Services!
Parenting and Music Resources: