The Harmonious Journey: How Music Therapy Supports Parent and Infant Well-being
Written by Mackenzie Costron Music Therapist and Registered Counselling Therapist and Julia Blundon Music Therapist
Music is a powerful tool for connection and development, particularly in the early stages of life. Music therapy not only nurtures the parent-infant bond but also supports the well-being of both parent and child. This blog explores the profound impact of music therapy on parent health, baby development, and the parent-infant connection.
Music Therapy supports the well-being of both parent and child.
Music Therapy for Parent Health and Well-being
Parenting is a rewarding yet challenging journey, often accompanied by stress and emotional fatigue. Music therapy offers a soothing refuge, helping parents manage stress, reduce anxiety, and improve their overall mental health. Participating in music therapy provides a valuable outlet for emotional expression, allowing parents to reconnect with their own well-being. Moreover, group music therapy sessions create a supportive community, where parents can share experiences and form meaningful connections.
Music Therapy for Baby Development and Music Enrichment
From the first lullaby to playful rhythms, music plays a crucial role in an infant’s development. Infants are naturally responsive to music, particularly to simple, repetitive melodies and rhythms. Engaging in music therapy enhances cognitive and motor skills, as babies learn to match pitches, rhythms, and even move to the beat. Activities like singing and playing instruments offer sensory stimulation, crucial for developing motor skills and overall brain function.
Infant Music Milestones
0-3 months: Infants can discriminate between frequencies just days after birth, showing a natural sensitivity to sound.
3-6 months: Babies begin cooing and making purposeful vocal sounds. Music becomes a calming influence, especially as they start to smile for the first time.
6-9 months: A preference for higher pitches develops, and infants start using simple rhythms.
9-12 months: Infants can match pitches about 55% of the time, showing increasing musical responsiveness.
12-18 months: Babies start making vocal sounds in response to music and begin to move in time with the rhythm, matching their movements to the music.
Parent-Infant Attachment and Bonding through Music Therapy
The bond between a parent and child is one of life’s most precious connections. Music therapy strengthens this bond by fostering deep emotional connections through shared musical experiences. Singing to your baby, for example, involves physical closeness, eye contact, and rhythmic movement, which all contribute to the release of oxytocin, the "bonding hormone." These musical interactions also build trust and enhance non-verbal communication, laying the foundation for a secure attachment between parent and child.
Practical Tips for Incorporating Music Therapy at Home
Incorporating music into daily routines is a simple yet effective way to enhance your baby’s development and your own well-being. Consider establishing daily music rituals, such as singing during bath time or playing soothing music at bedtime. Interactive play, like clapping or dancing to the beat, can make these moments even more enriching. Choose music that resonates with you and your baby, creating a personalized and meaningful experience.
Join us at the Perinatal Wellness Centre in Nova Scotia
Music therapy offers a harmonious path to supporting both parent and infant well-being. By incorporating music into your daily life, you can nurture your baby’s development, strengthen your bond, and find joy in the shared experience of music.
If you’re interested in exploring music therapy further, connect with Mackenzie at the Perinatal Wellness Centre here. Share your experiences and join a community of parents who are using music to create lasting bonds and memories.