One of the resounding ability of children is the ability to pick sounds early even before speaking. The hearing ability of children is so astounding that right from childhood they began to be attracted to sounds especially the melodious and beautiful ones. Have you ever wondered how a little baby discerns his/her mothers voice and that of the immediate household from that of strangers? Also, what about the instinct of hearing the local language i.e. mother tongue? Therefore, the hearing ability of children are remarkable even to picking up highest or faintest sounds.
As the baby grows from infants to toddlers, he or she is fascinated to sounds of sweet combinations which pleasing to his or her ears i.e. music. This is even evident especially in audio-visuals like cartoons been shown on the television and you see the toddler sitting quietly and watching it. It's amazing to see that the first set of words a child says or sounds produced by them are music like because that's one of their first attraction. Also, the power of lullaby can never be overemphasized which still holds true till today as one of the old and efficient method of calming and relaxing these young ones.
On starting schooling, the proven effective way of learning for children is through songs, rhymes and other related means. For example, i remembered in my Nursery and Primary School days many years ago how i learnt the numbers, alphabets, my country's national anthem and other foundational knowledge in education through musical approach as taught by my teachers then which i still remembers up until now. In addition, what about folk songs and other songs gleaned from stories whether from informal setting from parents, grandparents or elderly ones, or from formal setting as learnt in stories from school. Furthermore, what about choreographies, traditional singing and dancing, class presentations in songs which all are major highlights of end-of-the-year school parties or festive celebrations especially school carol programs.
What about on the religious side no matter the religious practice, the place of music in children learning some vital knowledge of the religion can never be overemphasized. For example, as a person of Christian faith, i remembered how i learnt some bible verses and even some bible stories lessons are packaged in songs for easy rememberance. This cut across all religion showing how impactful music is to children on all sides including academics, culturally, religious wise and on all sides. Infact, as someone who is musically trained and oriented, the best time to learn music and musical instruments is as early as possible starting as a child with how i learnt to play a keyboard 🎹 a living proof.
Therefore, the huge influence of music on children can never be overemphasized and the more reason to be cautious and selective nowadays in the type and kind of music children are exposed to because far more than entertainment or relaxation, music teaches, music informs, music creates awareness and enlightenment to children. Hence, music has a great impact on a child's development and turn out in life, the more the reason for caution especially in this age and era with various musical contents and visuals flying around with easy access to them.
As music is evolving and due to advance in technology, there are lot of differences between music now and then with major emphasis on purpose, contents, displays, accessibility etc. Children are more accessible to children's music now with mobile devices and other devices compared to then which are very limited. Also, the contents of children's music now though much improved but needs caution as a result of infiltrations of unwholesome contents which can negatively influence a child if not careful.
Children music is still in vogue in children's setting like schools, nursery homes, children centres, Church children's section etc and infact, i still had contact with such recently. Therefore, music is good for children as it entertains, relaxes, educates and informs them. Music also positively influences children especially the good and quality ones which inturn impacts on their development. Thanks for reading even as comments, contributions and suggestions are highly welcomed.
This is my participation post in #Juneinleo monthly prompt for day 21 by the #inleo. Check out this @leogrowth/re-leothreads-gjpcnuhb to get involved. 
