🎵 Don’t Just Play Random Kids’ Songs!

🕒 Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

How Parents Can Use Music at Home to Support Private Lessons

Recent research from McMaster University in Canada shows that children with stronger rhythm and auditory awareness often develop better reading and literacy skills.

As a music educator, I’ve seen this connection firsthand. Music isn’t just about learning an instrument — it’s about developing listening, focus, and expression. While private lessons are the foundation of musical growth, parents can make a huge difference by creating a musical environment at home.

This guide will show you how to use digital music tools as a supplement to private study — not a replacement — to help children grow into creative, confident musicians.

🌱 Step 1: Bring Music Into Everyday Life

Learning music shouldn’t be limited to lesson time. The best results come when music becomes part of daily routines — singing while cleaning up, dancing before bedtime, or listening together during car rides.

Many parents rely on story machines or YouTube playlists, but those can be repetitive and low-quality. Instead, try using Apple Music and Apple Music Classical, which both feature curated children’s playlists updated regularly — from nursery favorites to symphonic Disney themes.

When kids hear well-produced, diverse music, they start recognizing rhythm, melody, and tone — skills that reinforce what they’re learning in private lessons.

🎼 Step 2: Explore Classical and Modern Music Together

I’ve gathered some playlist recommendations below. They’re not only suitable for children, but also beautifully arranged and relaxing for hardworking parents — perfect for turning daily listening into a shared, inspiring experience.

🎻 Classical & Instrumental for Kids

1. Lang Lang: Classical for Kids - Hand-picked by world-renowned pianist Lang Lang,

   this playlist introduces young listeners to the beauty of classical piano and orchestral sound.

2. Classical Kids - A joyful mix of short, expressive pieces from famous composers — perfect for background listening or calm playtime.

3. Classical for Children (Deutsche Grammophon) - A beautifully curated playlist by Deutsche Grammophon, featuring orchestral favorites that capture imagination.

4. Classical Music for Kids (ABC Kids) - Great for car rides and homework time — familiar melodies and playful rhythms make classical approachable for kids.

5. Baby Sleep - Soothing instrumentals designed to calm young listeners before bedtime.

🎤 Modern, Fun & Sing-Along Playlists

1. Kids Hits: 2024 - A collection of clean, catchy songs your kids will love — pop melodies reimagined for family listening.

2. KIDZ BOP Pop Hits - Popular songs sung by kids, for kids — energetic and fun for playtime or car karaoke.

3. Disney Hits - Sing-along favorites from Disney classics to new releases. Perfect for family music nights or road trips.

   
   

💡 Pro tip: If a playlist doesn’t appear in your region, search for the same title in Apple Music — most have regional equivalents (e.g., Kids Hits Singapore, Disney Favorites Japan, etc.).

🎶 Step 3: Make Music a Shared Experience

For children ages 0–3, focus on listening and movement. From 3–6, start encouraging creative expression.

Here are some teacher-approved ideas to support lesson learning:

1. Turn songs into movement games. This strengthens rhythm and coordination.

2. Use simple or DIY instruments. Let your child imitate rhythms from their lessons.

3. Play music of many styles. Classical, jazz, folk, and world music all expand musical vocabulary and spark curiosity.

These experiences help students internalize rhythm and pitch — making private lesson time more effective and enjoyable.

💡 Step 4: Keep the Environment Fresh

The beauty of streaming platforms is that new content appears every week — keeping listening exciting and current.

Encourage your child to help choose the playlist for:

• Morning routines 🌞

• Homework or quiet time ✏️

• Movement breaks 💃

• Bedtime wind-down 🌙

By linking music to daily activities, students naturally develop stronger ears and a deeper love for sound — which transfers right back into their private lesson progress.

✨ The Role of Private Lessons

Private lessons remain the heart of musical growth. They provide structure, feedback, and technique that can’t be replaced by apps or playlists. But when parents actively participate — curating what children listen to, dancing or singing together, and reinforcing practice — the child’s progress accelerates. Think of at-home listening as “musical nutrition.” Just like healthy meals support a growing body, consistent and varied listening supports a growing musician.

💬 The Big Picture

Music learning works best when home and studio work hand in hand.When children experience music as part of their lifestyle — not just a weekly appointment — they develop confidence, creativity, and joy.

So next time you press play, skip the overplayed nursery rhymes — and let your child explore the world of real, living music.

References:

• Corrigall, K.A., & Trainor, L.J. (2011). Associations Between Length of Music Training and Reading Skills in Children. McMaster University. PDF link

• McMaster University LIVELab Research Summary.