Communicating the Importance of Music in Early Childhood

In this column, I encourage early childhood professionals to clearly and intentionally communicate the importance of music in their programs to parents, administrators, and other stakeholders. I suggest three rationales for the inclusion of music in early childhood programs, give examples of music activities that illustrate each justification, and provide suggested reading and resources for those seeking to advocate for their programs. Whether we are teaching early childhood parent-child classes at a community music school, teaching preK classes within our elementary schools, or training preschool teachers on how to use music in the classroom, it is imperative that we know why music is essential in children’s lives and can communicate this clearly to those who ask