Why Music Is Magic for Preschoolers: 5 Ways Music Helps Your Child Learn

As a preschool teacher with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen firsthand how music lights up little learners’ minds. Whether it's a simple fingerplay, a catchy alphabet tune, or a full-body movement song, music is one of the most powerful tools we can use to teach toddlers and preschoolers. Here’s why music is truly magic—and how you can use it at home to support your child’s learning.

1. Music Builds Language Skills

Songs help children hear the rhythm and sounds of language. Repetitive lyrics, rhymes, and actions introduce new vocabulary, strengthen listening skills, and build sentence structure—all without flashcards! Try singing a simple “Hello Song” each day to build routine and language confidence.

Try This:🎵 “Hello, hello, what’s your name? Let’s all say it nice and plain!”

2. Music Supports Memory and Recall

Ever notice how your child remembers every word to their favorite song, but forgets where their shoes are? Music naturally supports memory through melody and rhythm. This is especially helpful for learning sequences, like the days of the week, counting, or step-by-step routines.

3. Music Encourages Movement and Motor Skills

Preschoolers aren’t meant to sit still! Action songs like “If You’re Happy and You Know It” or “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes” help children develop coordination, balance, and body awareness—all while getting the wiggles out.

Developmental Tip: Gross motor movement is directly tied to brain development. Songs that encourage clapping, jumping, spinning, or dancing activate both body and brain!

4. Music Teaches Social-Emotional Skills

Songs can teach children to use kind words, express feelings, or wait their turn. At Miss Annette’s Preschool, I write original songs about empathy, sharing, and using polite words to make abstract social skills easier to understand—and remember.

Example Song Topic:🧸 “Kind Words, Kind Words, Nice to Say”  as part of Miss Annette's Video "Kind Words and Empathy for Kids".

5. Music Makes Learning Fun and Playful

Most importantly, music makes learning feel like play. And when children have fun, they’re more likely to stay engaged, explore, and try new things. Whether you're counting to 10 or singing about farm animals, music helps transform everyday moments into joyful learning.

Final Thoughts: Let the Music Play!

Whether you're a parent, teacher, or caregiver, adding music to your daily routine is one of the easiest—and most effective—ways to support your child’s development. Don’t worry if you’re not a great singer. Your child doesn’t care. Just sing loud and proud!

💡 Want to get started? Explore Miss Annette’s Preschool YouTube Channel for free educational songs and videos designed just for toddlers and preschoolers.