Music Sparks the Brain When We Move!

By Kathy Morrison, Director

In Kindermusik class, we are moving and moving and moving! It’s truly a music and movement experience. We move because it’s a natural part of interacting with children. We move because your child’s brain craves it. We move because the combination of singing and movement turns the brain on for a powerful learning experience with lasting effects.

Movement is fundamental for the development of the central nervous system.

Carla Hannaford, author of Smart Moves, tells us that “Movement is the key to learning!”

She also writes….

“But we have missed a most fundamental and mysterious aspect of the mind: learning, thought, creativity and intelligence are not processes of the brain alone, but of the whole body. Sensations, movements, emotions and brain functions are grounded in the body. The human qualities we associate with the mind can never exist separate from the body.” – from her book called, Smart Moves.

“Learning is not all in your head.” We must move in order to develop our brains and develop our bodies to their full potential. When combined with music, movement becomes even more powerful because of the way they both stimulate the brain for growth and development.

For more information, read the book, Smart Moves, by Carla Hannaford.

Movement creates social and emotional bonds.

When we move together in class, we are connecting with one another in an emotional and social way.

“When a parent moves with her infant, a special bonding takes place that is key to social and emotional growth. When a parent sings to her child, not only are language skills being developed, but also a sense of love, comfort and harmony. The special touching, laughing, and rhythmic moving that takes place in a music and movement class lays a very strong and much needed foundation for a happy, healthy and joyful life!” – Minds on Music blog

When children and families engage in circle dances in class, the social interaction creates a sense of community, while also developing essential executive function skills. That sense of belonging opens the mind for learning and enjoyment because individuals feel connected to the group. Learning is possible when we feel safe and connected. So again, “Movement is the key to learning.” Carla Hannaford’s statement is appropriate in so many ways.

Surprising Benefits of Movement in Kindermusik Class

Movement is how a child naturally explores the world around them. As we sing and move together in class, your child is also exploring language and how to move the body as we label our movements or sing the dance steps.

Think about songs like “Old Brass Wagon.” Notice how the lyrics tell us what to do.
Circle to the left old brass wagon…
Circle to the right…
Swing oh swing…
Clap your hands…

Every phrase contains words that label our body, label directions, or label a movement. As we repeat these favorite songs over and over for the sheer joy of making music together, your child begins to acquire language. She is learning sequences and patterns, while also reinforcing her sense of body awareness.

Yet, there’s more. Your child is developing coordination and strengthening core muscles that help strengthens his whole body and his brain. The movements are stimulating the vestibular system (the entryway to the brain) every time he crosses the midline of the body as we swing and twist.

The layers of the learning experience create a powerful and lasting impact. Yet, it’s very subtle allowing us to focus on time together and the joy of music making.

So Move and sing and dance.
These moments will wrap around your heart as you bond with your child AND spark the brain for learning.