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Making music and singing nursery rhymes with grandchildren

It’s no secret that babies and toddlers love music, whether it's listening to it, beating out a rhythm or hearing nursery rhymes.

It is also a really important part of early development. So why not combine some musical elements and have a little festival with your grandchildren?

You could make some homemade shakers or drums with pots and pans and have a nursery rhyme singalong. Your young grandchildren will love it.

Watch the video below to find out more about why musical play is so good for babies and toddlers.

When making homemade shakers with young children, make sure the tops are entirely secure before you begin shaking.

What are the benefits of musical play for babies and toddlers?

  • Using rhymes and rhythm can help bring your words to life and make them easy for toddlers to remember.
  • Singing to young children develops their listening and attention skills.
  • Nursery rhymes introduce children to new words they might not encounter everyday.
  • Exposing children to different rhythms and pitches can help develop listening and speaking skills.
  • Doing actions along with rhymes helps improve motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
A grandma and her young granddaughter since in a living room and play with a homemade shaker or rattle.
Seeing your face often helps keep little ones interested in your words.

Different types of musical activities for babies and toddlers

There are loads of easy ways you can get little ones involved with musical fun and help their early development. Check out these ideas below if you're looking for inspiration:

1. Singing songs and nursery rhymes

Get face-to-face with your young child as you sing your favourite nursery rhyme. Don't be afraid of repetition - it helps them learn lots of new words!

Actions are a great way to bring a nursery rhyme to life. As your grandchild develops, see if they can copy the gestures and eventually sing along.

2. Playing with musical instruments

Beating or shaking out rhythms can help bring your words to life and make them easy for your child to remember.

Why not try making a pattern with the instrument and see whether your grandchild can copy it?

Playing music can be a great way of getting kids to develop memory and listening skills.

3. Having a dance party

You don't just have to listen to nursery rhymes - your favourite tunes are also great for young children. They introduce new patterns, words and rhythms.

Having a dance party in your living room is great for improving coordination and concentration skills.

A grandma and her young granddaughter since in a living room and play with a homemade shaker or rattle.
Seeing your face often helps keep little ones interested in your words.

Find out more about nursery rhymes and making music

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