[This column addresses ways to incorporate musical concepts into the lives of young children without a formal music program. Music programs for young children were discussed in a previous column; music lessons for older children will be addressed in future columns.]

Parents face myriad decisions and pressures in raising their children, and music choices are no exception. Many parents want some music education for their children before they are school age but would prefer not to enter their children in a formal music program, such as those discussed in last month's column.

Whatever a parent's motivation for wanting to begin music education at home, it can be done easily, with virtually no financial burden, and it can build a bond between parent and child that lasts a lifetime. Moreover, these kinds of music experiences can be just as important to future success in music as formal training.

It is never too early to instill a love or appreciation for music in children. A parent's enthusiasm and participation can be hugely motivating to young children.

How to Begin

First, start with musical basics that provide a solid basis for more complex concepts. These basics are:

These elements are easily incorporated into music play and activities at early ages and don't require musical instruments. Your voice is your child's favorite musical instrument, and it is always available to you!

Second, teach an awareness of sound in general, and music in particular. You can help your child be more aware of the sounds around him throughout the day. Call his attention to the sound of a bird, the sound of a car engine, the sound of a train whistle, the sound of wind in the leaves, the sound of falling rain. Compare those sounds to other sounds he may be familiar with, then to dissimilar sounds. This will help him learn to compare and contrast sounds. This type of activity can be extended to music as well. Some children evidence amazing abilities to recognize similar music, even pieces of music in the same key or played at the same tempo, at very early ages. This type of awareness and critical thinking are excellent building blocks for future music training, as well as future academic pursuits, including math and science.

Here are a few at home music games and activities that you might try:

Musical Instruments for Young Children

Various types of musical instruments are available to parents of young children. Nearly all toy stores have a wide variety of musical toys, from instruments such as glockenspiels and xylophones to educational toys set to music that teach concepts such as color, size, and letter recognition. In addition, web sites for formal music programs for young children (such as Kindermusik) and educational web sites such as home schooling and Montessori web sites) often include stores where parents can order musical instruments for young children. When considering these alternatives, use your parenting instincts regarding safety for your child and avoid any instrument that you believe could break or splinter if your child were given free rein in using it. Also, to avoid frustrating your child, look for instruments of appropriate size and shape that your child can easily manipulate.

You can also turn your music practice into a crafts project by making musical instruments at home out of ordinary household items. A number of websites and videos offer ideas for homemade instruments. Check out http://nancymusic.com for some great "recipes" for making homemade instruments. Also, Ann Zeise's site at includes links to a number of other sites that include ideas and instructions for homemade instruments.

Regardless how creative and "craftsy" you are, you can build musical skills and concepts in your young child without great expense or a huge commitment of your time. You will give your child the gift of your enthusiasm and love, and these will follow her throughout her life, no matter where her musical journey may take her.

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