Have you ever thought about how perfect the song Head Shoulders Knees and Toes is? It’s been a childhood favorite for a long time! Perhaps you heard this version of it on Mr. Rogers. In any language, this super short song packs so much learning in less than a minute: vocabulary, physical movement, and pointing to appropriate body parts all while singing!
The connection between music and literacy is undeniable. Music for children is great at introducing new vocabulary, helping kids practice new sounds (think Old MacDonald Had a Farm), encouraging movement (think Itsy Bitsy Spider), improves listening skills, and most importantly slowing down language so children can hear every word. Since kids sing these songs over and over, the concepts really soak into their growing brains.
Are you beginning to wonder if listening to music also has an impact? It sure does. When you’re ready for a soundtrack to childhood, check out Miss Nina‘s YouTube channel with weekly doses of music. We’ll admit that her Brown Bear rap has a special place in our heart… but is it better than rapper Ludacris’ version of Llama Llama Red Pajama?!? You can be the judge of that!