Let yourself be lullabied

In this issue, we briefly introduce the researcher who helped develop the Éveil musical education program implemented in the Carrefour francophone’s early childhood centres. We then take a closer look at lullabies, exploring the characteristics of these songs that accompany the transition from wakefulness to sleep. We also offer a selection of lullabies for you to discover or rediscover.

The research behind the Éveil musical program for the little ones

As mentioned in a previous issue, the Sudbury Symphony Orchestra (SSO) has played an active role in establishing the Éveil musical program in the early childhood centres of the Carrefour francophone de Sudbury. The Orchestra has extensive experience in music education, notably through its conservatory established in 2001, as well as through concerts and Éveil musical initiatives in local schools.

During the development of the Éveil musical program for toddlers, the SSO musicians leading the project (Nicole and Anne-Marie) sought the expertise of professor and researcher Jonathan Bolduc.

His research focuses, among other things, on the impact of music education on children’s overall development. The early music education program designed for the Carrefour childare centres is therefore specifically tailored to the needs of young children and their developmental stage.

A few years ago, Radio-Canada’s Découverte program aired a fascinating report exploring music’s ability to enhance children’s cognitive abilities. We invite you to watch it to learn about Professor Bolduc’s work and the benefits of using musical games for language learning.

The secret of lullabies

Singing to lull a baby to sleep is a completely natural instinct for parents. The repertoire of lullabies is naturally passed down from generation to generation. These songs are often accompanied by physical rocking. The whole body and voice rock the child, at the risk of the adult falling asleep too!

If the idea of singing a lullaby to your child intimidates you, remember that toddlers perceive the world of sound with much more openness and innocence than adults. Don’t worry if you’re not used to singing, if you’re not very familiar with music, if you don’t feel like you have a good singing voice, or if you can’t remember the words to a lullaby by heart. Toddlers are particularly sensitive to the authenticity of the person singing, to their intentions and emotions. If you enjoy singing, if you sing with tenderness, and if you choose songs you love, that’s what will capture your child’s interest—not your musical virtuosity.

Lullabies often use simple melodies, the repetition of syllables, words, or phrases, and vocabulary made up of familiar elements from the child’s life. Psychologically, these types of songs have the same comforting effect as a stuffed animal or a security blanket.

If you don’t know the words to a lullaby or are too tired to remember them, feel free to sing spontaneously. Lullabies can also take the form of improvised songs, gentle humming, sung whispers, or the repetition of syllables or words. Ultimately, what matters is that it comes from the heart!

Lullabies to discover or rediscover

Short lullabies that are easy to learn

Classic lullabies

Lullabies with lyrics that feature a repetitive pattern

Lullabies that tell a story

We will see you very soon for another Music Notebook! Until then, we wish you a good night, sweet lullabies, and sweet dreams!