This article explores the benefits of music in helping young children transition from daycare to big school. It highlights research findings and expert opinions on the role of music in fostering social bonding, emotional regulation, and cognitive development. It also offers practical tips for parents and educators on how to incorporate music into the transition process.
Music can play a significant role in easing the transition from daycare to big school, fostering a sense of belonging and kinship for young children. A recent survey by early learning educators Young Academics revealed that a majority of parents expressed concerns about their children's readiness for school, with many noting difficulties during the shift from daycare.
To address this, Young Academics collaborated with The Wiggles to incorporate music-based resources into their curriculum, aiming to enhance children's confidence, emotional resilience, and cognitive development. Dr. Steffen A. Herff, a leading researcher at the Sydney Music, Mind, and Body Lab, emphasizes the power of music in supporting young children during this transition. He explains that music can facilitate communication and expression, acting as a powerful tool for social bonding. Music, dance, and other art forms possess remarkable abilities to regulate emotions, support memory, imagination, and higher-order cognitive functions. Moreover, they provide a natural pathway for shared enculturation, which can significantly contribute to a sense of belonging and connection with new people and environments.Dr. Herff draws an analogy to adults establishing connections in a new workplace. While they might initially feel apprehensive, a shared interest in music, like a favorite song or band, can quickly bridge the gap and foster a sense of camaraderie. Similarly, music can help children connect not only with each other but also with their new school environment. Carefully chosen music can evoke positive and calming emotions when discussing the transition to school or introducing children to the surroundings. This approach aligns with the widespread practice of using calming music in public spaces like elevators and hospital waiting areas to mitigate anxiety and promote a sense of tranquility. Dr. Herff's research demonstrates that background music can influence the vividness and emotional intensity of imagined content. Parents and daycare teachers can leverage this insight by employing familiar songs and stories to help children visualize and prepare for the new and unknown environment of big school
MUSIC EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION SCHOOL TRANSITION SOCIAL BONDING EMOTIONAL REGULATION COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT
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