New parents seem to know intuitively how to soothe their baby and will naturally rock and sway as they hold them.
I have a distinct memory from years ago that illustrates the power of music. I was holding our crying, hurting, very sleepy 2-month-old foster baby and nothing seemed to help. I had done all my best tricks and he simply wouldn't calm down. I knew he was hurting from the injuries of his physical abuse and wanted to help, but how? I starting singing Beautiful Boy by John Lennon to him because the words just seemed appropriate, Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful, beautiful boy. He slowly quieted and began to relax into me as we rocked gently. As I softly sang those words over and again, he finally fell asleep.
What is it about music and rhythm that helps babies relax? Actually there lots more going on than you might be aware of! In this episode we explore the cognitive, emotional and physical benefits of moving, dancing and singing with your baby.
Here's the show notes for this episode.
Download 20 Ways to Play with Your Baby and Toddler to learn about the developmental stages of play, how to interact your child from 0-36 months and the do's and don'ts of playing with your little one.
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