Babies turn us into non-stop singing machines. Why?
Jan 20, 2024
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Why do babies turn us into non-stop singing machines? This podcast explores the benefits of singing to babies, including language development and emotional regulation. It also discusses how songs evolve as babies grow older and the differences in communication styles between mothers and fathers. The podcast delves into the emotional aspect of singing to babies and reflects on parents' bittersweet experience as their children outgrow the desire for them to sing.
Singing to babies grabs their attention and triggers changes in brain activity, serving as a universal behavior that engages their attention.
Singing to babies serves as an educational tool, teaching them language and turn-taking skills, while also creating a shared emotional bond between caregiver and baby.
Deep dives
Function 1: Grabbing a baby's attention
Singing to babies is a universal behavior that helps grab their attention. Studies show that babies have a preference for this type of communication, which is salient and stands out from regular speech. Singing engages their attention and triggers changes in brain activity.
Function 2: Teaching language and turn-taking
Singing to babies serves as an educational tool, teaching them language and turn-taking skills. Through songs, parents teach babies how to speak, construct sentences, and interact with others. Songs also encourage turn-taking, as parents pause in the song to allow the baby to respond or participate.
Function 3: Regulating emotions
Singing to babies helps regulate their emotions and creates a feedback loop in the caregiver-baby relationship. It helps the baby communicate their needs through emotional reactions, and the caregiver responds with singing, providing comfort and soothing. Singing helps create a shared emotional bond between the caregiver and baby.
Transition from singing to spoken communication
As children grow older and become more proficient in language and communication, the frequency of singing to them decreases. This transition often happens around the time they start school. While singing may decline, the emotional connection and shared social moments created through singing continue to impact the caregiver-child relationship.