AuntyB: If "sing!" is included in some of your toddler's first words, you know that music has made an impact from infancy. Songs are like toasted marshmallows over an open fire. They are comforting, personal, satisfying and sweet. Sing to your unborn child, sing to your infant, sing to your toddler. It is an endearing experience that introduces music to your child.
Music is both thrilling and exciting, serene and restful. It is another world that gives variety and fullness to life. Singing is the starting place. If you don't know any songs, find a toddler teacher and learn their circle time songs and motions.
Create your own circle time, car time or outdoor time daily where you sing with your child the same circle time songs. Have fun! In sharing this time (ten songs, at least), you have made a lifetime of memories for your child.
Gradually, sing at other times. Add songs that are your favorites: Gospel, Western, Rock and Roll, Folk. Sung over and over daily, the child will sing with you and request them. (Of course, don't forget the going-to-sleep lullabies.)
Examples of Circle Time Songs:
- Here We are Together
- Itsy Bitsy Spider
- Hickory Dickory Dock
- I'm a Little Teapot
- Ten Little Indian Boys and Girls
- The Farmer in the Dell
- The Wheels on the Bus
- Mary had a Little Lamb
- Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star
- Open, Shut Them
Some of my favorite "other" songs are:
