Lullabies
My favorite way of bonding is singing for and with others, but being sung TO by a loved one is an undeniable bonding experience that becomes a part of the familial fabric for generations.
I have memories of my mother humming "You are My Sunshine" while rocking me to sleep and of my father waking me up from a nap with "Blister in the Sun" (a not-so-gentle wake up, but memorable nonetheless.)
Into my adulthood, these memories provide a sense of comfort and security that can only come from family.
When I ask students, "what is a song that your parents sang to your as a baby?" Without a doubt, "You are My Sunshine" is the most common answer!
Sadly, however, there are a few that answer "nothing."
It breaks my heart every time.
Singing to your child is a way of helping them relax, calm down, and provides a sense of security.
When you are demonstrating comfortability and ease of singing to your child, they in return feel safe to sing (or express themselves) to you.
Once your child is singing and humming, they can learn to sing expressively to others... siblings, dolls, stuffed animals, or family members!
Singing expressively with the intention of calming another will also soothe and calm the singer.
Just like choosing quality books to read to and with your children, choose quality songs to sing to and your with your children as well!
Baloo Baleerie - Scottish Lullaby
Tips for singing lullabies:
Sing softly with a higher voice than you may normally sing
Choose a variety of songs with different tonality, rhythms, timings (meter), and languages
Choose songs that inspire wonder and make-believe
Repeat the lullaby 3-4 times with the last time through using a humming voice
Need more lullabies for bedtime? Let's chat!
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