Baby

We’ve brought together some of the best music to play to babies to keep them calm, happy and to help their development. Dr Rob Hicks explains how classical music plays an important role in your child's development.

Dr Rob Hicks: "Music is all around, rewarding us in so many ways. At one end of the scale music is energising; at the other end of the scale it can help to calm the most stressful situation. Music plays an important role in all aspects of a child’s development. It’s now clear that babies in the womb respond to music. Once a baby is born music can help the process of bonding. As your newborn grows, music plays an integral part of games and other activities and the learning that these can provide.

"Children love music, all kinds of music, and music should be an important part of any child’s life. We know that adults nurture the development of their babies and the children they care for by responding to their needs, and when a child is enjoying him or herself and having fun they will be learning. For music to be able to influence children all that’s needed is for it to be played. Then just sit back and enjoy it, and relax in the knowledge that you’re doing your best for your children."

Lullabies and other tunes have been played to babies for many years to calm them and lull them to sleep. Listening to music is a good baby calming technique, whether you are rocking your baby in your arms or swaying to the rhythm. It’s soothing and a wonderful way to bond and interact with your child. Hearing a familiar piece of music can also be very reassuring for a child when, for example, they find themselves in a new environment.

Can classical music boost your child's IQ?
Some studies suggest that playing music to a baby in the womb, and in early childhood years, helps brain development. Some believe that exposure to music whilst in the womb also contributes to increased intellectual ability - the so called Mozart Effect. However, others question this and the subject remains controversial.