There are few things that enrich our lives as much as music. Whether we realize it or not, music plays a crucial role in our daily experiences. Think about your favorite movie moments—what would those scenes be without a spectacular soundtrack to bring them to life? How about life’s biggest milestones, like weddings, graduations, or even funerals? Each of these moments is made more meaningful by the presence of music, enhancing emotions, tradition, and connection.
Even in our everyday personal moments, music is woven into our routines. Parents instinctively hum lullabies to soothe a crying baby. We turn on our favorite playlists to uplift our moods or calm our minds after a stressful day. Music is an integral part of being human—it transcends cultures, generations, and languages. Simply put, life is better with music.
But what if we took things a step further? Instead of just listening to music passively, what if we made a conscious effort to make life more musical—especially for our children? The benefits of music for children are well-documented, from improving cognitive skills and emotional well-being to enhancing creativity and social connections.
Now that we’re just one month into 2025, let’s make this a year of musical adventures! Here are five ways you can make life more musical for you and your child—and why doing so will make life even better.
1. Never Underestimate the Power of Experiencing Live Music
Attending a live music event with your child can be a magical experience. Watching musicians perform in real time allows children to see the power of music in action. It introduces them to different genres, instruments, and musical styles that they may not encounter in their daily routine.
And the best part? It doesn’t have to be expensive! Many parents assume that live music means pricey concert tickets, but there are so many budget-friendly options available. Check out local community colleges and universities, which often host concerts featuring orchestras, jazz ensembles, choirs, or faculty recitals at little to no cost. Community centers, libraries, and parks also host free live music events, especially in the summer.
By attending live music performances together, you’ll not only expose your child to a broader musical world but also create shared experiences that you both will cherish for years to come.
2. Turn Everyday Life into a Musical Scavenger Hunt
Music is everywhere—we just have to listen for it! Encourage your child to explore the world through a musical lens by turning everyday experiences into a musical scavenger hunt.
Here are a few fun questions to get started:
- Where do we hear music in nature? (Birds chirping, rustling leaves, ocean waves)
- How does music enhance sporting events? (Pump-up anthems, halftime shows, crowd chants)
- What’s the purpose of background music in stores, restaurants, or elevators?
- How does music affect our emotions in different settings? (Think about the difference between an upbeat song in a commercial versus a dramatic score in a movie.)
This simple yet engaging activity heightens your child’s awareness of sound and helps them develop a deeper appreciation for how music is naturally interwoven into the world around them. Plus, it’s a great way to spark curiosity and conversation!
3. Learn an Instrument Together
Have you ever wanted to learn an instrument but never found the time? Why not start now—alongside your child?
Many parents assume that music lessons are just for kids, but learning an instrument together can be a rewarding and bonding experience for both of you. Whether it’s piano, ukulele, drums, or singing, starting this journey together can make the learning process more enjoyable and less intimidating for your child.
At My Music Workshop, we offer beginner-friendly online music lessons designed for kids ages 4-12, but they’re also great for parents who want to learn alongside their little ones. Not only does this create a special parent-child bonding experience, but it also reinforces the idea that learning new skills is fun, regardless of age.
Even if structured lessons aren’t your thing, you can still explore instruments informally:
- Try basic drumming by tapping rhythms on tables or pots and pans.
- Experiment with a simple keyboard or ukulele at home.
- Sing along to your favorite songs while playing along with toy instruments.
No matter how you do it, learning music together can be a joyful, confidence-boosting experience for both parent and child. You can sign up for a seven day free trial here!
4. Weave Music into Your Daily Routine
Music has the incredible power to turn mundane moments into joyful experiences. Whether it’s morning routines, car rides, or chores, adding music can make everything more enjoyable!
Here are a few fun ways to incorporate music into everyday activities:
- Cleaning Up: Play an upbeat song while tidying up. Make it a challenge to finish before the song ends!
- Morning Mood Booster: Create a morning playlist to start the day on a positive note.
- Car Rides: Have a “car concert” where you and your child take turns picking songs and singing along.
- Teeth Brushing: Play a 2-minute song to encourage kids to brush for the right amount of time.
- Dance Breaks: If your child has been sitting too long, put on a song and have a quick dance party to shake off the energy!
By incorporating music into daily tasks, you make them more engaging, enjoyable, and memorable for both you and your child.
5. Write a Song Together
Writing a song may sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! You don’t need to be a songwriter or musician to create something fun and meaningful.
One simple way to write a song is to borrow a melody from a familiar tune and create your own lyrics. For example:
- Use the melody of “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” and make up words about your child’s favorite things.
- Take a song like “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” and turn it into a silly song about your daily routine.
- If you’re feeling creative, make up an entirely new melody together!
Songwriting encourages creativity, storytelling, and self-expression, all while making wonderful memories with your child. Plus, singing something you’ve created together can be an incredibly special bonding experience!
Why Making Life More Musical Makes Life Better
By incorporating music into your daily life, you’re doing more than just having fun—you’re providing a wealth of benefits for your child’s development and well-being.
Music helps children:
-Build cognitive and memory skills
-Improve emotional regulation and confidence
-Strengthen their ability to communicate and express themselves
-Develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts
-Strengthen their bond with their parents and loved ones
Music truly has the power to enrich every aspect of life, making ordinary moments more magical and meaningful.
Final Thoughts: Let’s Make 2025 a Musical Year!
Now that you have these five simple yet powerful ways to make life more musical, it’s time to put them into action! Whether you start small by adding music to your daily routine or go big by learning an instrument together, every step you take brings more joy, connection, and creativity into your child’s life.
Let’s make 2025 a year of musical adventures!