Music In the Early Years
Music in early years education is a powerful and versatile tool that supports all seven areas of learning in the EYFS framework. These areas are: Communication and Language, Physical Development, Personal, Social and Emotional Development, Literacy, Mathematics, Understanding the World, and Expressive Arts and Design. Music activities—such as singing, movement, rhythm games, and instrument play—can be woven into daily routines and structured learning to enrich children's development across these domains.
In Communication and Language, music helps children develop listening skills, expand vocabulary, and understand rhythm and intonation in speech. Singing nursery rhymes and action songs encourages verbal expression and supports phonological awareness, which is foundational for literacy. Physical Development is supported through dancing, clapping, and playing instruments, which improve coordination, fine motor skills, and spatial awareness. Music also fosters Personal, Social and Emotional Development by encouraging collaboration, turn-taking, and emotional expression, helping children build relationships and self-confidence.
Music contributes to Literacy by reinforcing rhyme, syllables, and storytelling through song lyrics. In Mathematics, children explore patterns, counting beats, and sequencing through rhythm and musical structure. Understanding the World is enriched by exploring music from different cultures, traditions, and historical contexts, fostering curiosity and respect for diversity. Finally, Expressive Arts and Design is directly linked to music, as children create, perform, and respond to sound, developing their creativity and aesthetic appreciation. In this way, music is not just an enrichment activity—it is a vital, integrated part of early years learning.
