Can you recall your favorite song from childhood? Do you ever have a random song stuck in your head? Do you ever hum as you go through your day?  How do we remember the lyrics to songs that we rarely hear? Our brains are so powerful and the link between music, routines, and our brain functions is so valuable that even when you have not heard a song in countless years, your brain somehow finds familiarity and clings to what it surprisingly remembers.

Young children are able to easily learn new routines and expectations by song, as the song creates a storyline. Once it is familiar to the child, it is easier for the child to willingly comply. Thinking of popular children’s shows, such as ‘Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood’ and ‘Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood’ (*1), as they have some fantastic songs that can serve as wonderful resources for children.  Children seem to learn faster and remember routines quicker when the same language is utilized, especially if the language utilized is put to a tune. Have you ever considered writing your own songs? Are they effective? So, what’s your “Theme Song”!?

*1 Welcome to the Neighborhood: Quality children’s programming and wonderful resources for songs that are applicable to the life of a young child. For more information about fabulous children’s programming check out: https://pbskids.org