The Bing Note Team believes strongly in the use of music to promote learning.  Growing up in Council Bluffs, Iowa I was known as the “little girl with the big operatic voice.”  And even though I did not pursue a career as a singer, many of the materials we develop to inspire children are influenced by music. Our book and CD, “That’s Bingzy!” uses familiar, catchy tunes to help build self-esteem in children.  CLICK HERE to listen to some of the music.

The site www.songsforteaching.com has a wealth of information on music and the learning process. Everything you want to know about music and learning is covered.

Furthermore, the below is what Laura Woodall and Brenda Zienbroski have to say about promoting literacy through music.

Young children seem to be naturally ‘wired’ for sound and rhythm. Besides providing enjoyment, music can play an important role in language and literacy development. Strong social bonds are encouraged through music and songs beginning in preschool. Toddlers can begin to experiment with grammatical rules and various rhyming patterns in songs and other written text.

Music has always been a way for children to remember stories and learn about the world around them. Using music as a stimulus can effect one’s emotions and make information easier to remember. Music also creates an environment that is conducive to learning. It can reduce stress, increase interest, and set the stage for listening and learning. The similarities between literacy acquisition and musical development are many. Therefore, teaching that combines music and language arts instruction can be most effective (Davies, 2000).

The effects of music on the emotions is commonly known. The effects of music on the brain and thinking are demonstrable. Research has shown that during an electroencephalogram (EEG) music can change brain waves and make the brain more receptive to learning. Music connects the functions of the right and left hemispheres of the brain so that they work together and make learning quick and easy. Brain function is increased when listening to music and studies have shown that music promotes more complex thinking. It can make connections between emotions, thinking and learning. (Davies, 2000).

Good first teaching is based on using what children already know, and the influence of music on learning is clear. Teachers and parents should be motivated to incorporate music, rhymes, chants, rhythm, and songs in the learning process.

So go ahead and check out www.songsforteaching.com, and start teaching your kids some educational songs. I bet they’ll love it!

Wishing you a great musical start!

Arlene Richards &

The Bing Note Team!