One summer activity you might want to engage your young child in is listening to music and singing.

Young children simply delight in music and song. I am always amused and elated by how young children love to clap and dance to new songs as well as familiar tunes. Even babies are very aware and sensitive to the rhythm, intonation and tempo of music. It’s such a joy to hear early-childhood teachers rock and sing to babies. It’s even more special for mothers to sing to their babies. An infant quickly recognizes his mother’s singing voice. Young children love to repeat familiar tunes.

Your toddler is a great imitator. Toddlers love to hear songs that involve motions with their hands and feet.

Preschool-age children enjoy music just for music! They are not concerned about pitch or the right key. They love to sing and hum when they are playing and doing their little chores.

When children get older, they are taught in a group setting.

As an early-childhood director and teacher, I love to sing songs to young children as they go through transitions in subjects or centers. Children love and respond happily to music directions. It always amazes me how quickly a classroom is cleaned if the directions are put to song! Try it at home this summer.

Playing music in your home or car is thoroughly enjoyed by your young child. During the summer, hot weather or a long trip can be a little more tolerated by a young child if music is playing. Music can definitely set the mood for a happy day! Wake up your young child with a cheerful song! Lower the windows for your young child to listen to the morning chirping of the birds. In the evening, you can hear the chirping songs of the crickets and the groaning of the frogs. Guide your young child to listen to the different animal songs.

In taking afternoon naps or going to sleep at night, sweet lullabies relax your child and help your child to drift off to sleep. Moms, Dads there are so many CDs out there to entertain your child for hours!

Beth Pinyerd lives in Daphne and serves as director of younger children at Faith Family Fellowship in Spanish Fort.

Her column appears regularly in The Bulletin.