Why Do We Sing Songs and Dance During Storytime?

Why do we sing songs and dance during storytime?

That’s a good question. There is a very strong link between music and reading. Here is what researchers have found about the connection between music and literacy.

1. Music enhances language learning and Language development

2. Music can improve speech and reading skills by increasing one’s ability to distinguish between different sounds and understand the patterns of language

Example: Understanding rhythm can also increase their understanding of rhyming and alliteration patters

3. Music and Reading similar parts of the brain to and large portions of both sides of the brain

4. Music helps those with dyslexia because it helps them to create connections which later allow them learn how to read

5. Music enhances your imagination and your understanding of written language

6. Music gives confidence to speak orally and use language in general

7. Music teaches language in a “fun” and relaxed way

8. Music helps kids to remember stories and information

9. Beginning readers will attempt to "read" along in a shared reading of a familiar text, just as they will join in a sing along to a familiar song.

10. Using books put to songs enhance understanding of the story and comprehension of vocabulary or sequence

11. An EEG indicates music makes the brain more receptive to learning

Here are some great resources that talk about the music reading correlation. http://www.readinghorizons.com/blog/post/2010/03/22/The-Connection-between-Music- Reading-and-Language-Development.aspx

http://www.songsforteach Flip Camera Training Introduction ing.com/lb/literacymusic.htm http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/attention-training/201002/music-your-child-s-mind- improving-focus-through-song http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-power-daydreaming/200907/how-music-feeds- and-steers-your-imagination