Benefits of Songs and Poems in The Classroom
Let me sing!
Singing is not only a part of our culture, it is an important component of almost every aspect of our everyday lives. You hear music in movies, grocery stores, ice cream trucks, TV shows, and at amusement parks. You can even hear music in an elevator! Why? Because music evokes emotion! And for that reason, Songs, fingerplays, and poetry should fill every home and every classroom!
Aside from the emotional connection with music, a myriad of other benefits are instilled in young children through music. One benefit is that music and rhythm helps with brain development. When you sing or listen to music it stimulates different regions of the brain responsible for memory, motor control, timing and language. According to a study done by the University of Southern California,
“Music instruction appears to accelerate brain development in young children, particularly in the areas of the brain responsible for processing sound, language development, speech perception and reading skills.”
Other skills that songs and poems can help enhance are the development of phonemic awareness, the acquisition of new words, as well as learning and retaining new concepts.
The teaching of all academic concepts is enhanced when music is linked with a cross-curricular theme. For example, The song “The Octopus” will quickly teach students that an Octopus has 6 arms and 2 legs, not tentacles or 8 legs as commonly thought.
All concepts can be taught to music! I can still name all of the 50 states and capitals because they were put to song in my 5th grade year. I can easily name all of the books of the New Testament —- well I can sing them at least. I learned that song when I was 10 and now a full half-century later I can still sing it. Music is POWERFUL! Teachers need to tap into that power and use it to their advantage! If a student is struggling with a concept, teach it with a song and see what happens.
Songs are especially beneficial in quickly grabbing children’s attention and keeping them engaged and focused. They also help kids transition smoothly from one activity to another and help release all the energy they possess. If you need to get the classroom's attention, just start singing! Once your voice starts all eyes will turn to you and the students will quickly learn to join in.
Music can also help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress and help student regulate their emotions. I know that when I need to unwind at the end of the school day, turning on some soft music will quickly bring my emotions in check and fill me with a feeling of calm. If you are looking for ways to get started incorporating music into your classroom. I have some great resources that will get you going. Happy singing!
