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Singing to Your Baby - Music Therapy

Dr Jeanette Kennelly

Do you remember somewhere deep in your memory how it felt when your parent sang to you? How a soft, caring voice, or a soothing lullaby seemed anchored alongside memories of feeling sad or frightened? When baby is crying, unsettled or distressed, parents frequently feel exasperated or helpless. This doesn’t have to be the case, as there are many ways to soothe a crying baby. It is easy to let your own internal frustration result in shouting or even crying yourself.

Read on to discover how singing to your baby can make a difference...

Music Therapy | SongLife Connections | Grow Medical

The soothing power of singing

Humans are naturally enraptured by music. As well as intuition, research tells us that infant directed singing leads to babies remaining calm for twice as long compared to infant directed speech. However, singing and creating music in our society now is influenced by the proliferation of radio, television, smartphones, spotify and bluetooth speakers. While these platforms are useful in many ways, they will never replace the singing voice as a form of emotional connection. So what does mean for us as parents and carers of these babies? How do we use our singing voice to connect with, comfort and soothe them?

SongLife Connections was established to help you bridge this gap. Many of the sessions are focused on helping you arouse and sustain your baby’s attention. Our music therapists support you in understanding the differences between infant directed speech and singing. We help you to find the joy in early life by using your voice to genuinely connect with your baby.

One of the great things about singing as a way to settle your baby, is that your instrument is portable, free, and always ready, regardless whether you sing in tune or not! Singing is an easy way to play with your baby, and help them to learn unique ways to regulate their own emotions. It also provides a source of positive stimulation during the day. SongLife Connections is also great for parents to meet in community with one another and an opportunity to form lasting bonds with other parents beyond the music therapy space.

Most parents recognise that the cry of their own baby will trigger a stronger emotional response within, than the cry of another baby. You can use this unique connection between parent and child in a positive way by learning to sing as a sensory tool.

Why not give it go right now? Sing whatever comes to mind. Your baby will love the sound of your voice, and the connection through song will be positive for both you and your baby. Have fun, and sing like no one is looking!