Music – A Common Tie

9 May 08

Parents of young children report that they feel strongly that the formation of attitudes toward aging and older adults begins early in life. There is no better time to introduce babies to older adults and begin to establish relationships with older adult friends if grandparents are not nearby. For parents just beginning to establish relationships with an older adult “grandfriend,” a baby and music create natural connections.

This month we are tuning into relationships, particularly the relationships of children to parents to grandparents to great-grandparents. We'll look at ways to nourish these bonds through the making of music. When music is shared across generations, young children benefit from the attention of elders who value and adore them. Parents appreciate the beauty and richness of their children's new ties with "old friends." And older adults find joy and satisfaction in the opportunity to shape and connect with the future. Intergenerational music making truly provides what very few other interactions can.

Baby Massage to Music

Baby massage is soothing, enjoyable and a great way to connect with your baby. It's been shown to have therapeutic effects, helping improve circulation and aid digestion in babies. Emotionally, this loving touch provides opportunities for those adults closest to your baby to bond with her. Invite a grandparent or “grandfriend” to become familiar with this activity so they can share it with your baby. You can do it after a bath or when baby is clothed or in her cot. Before you begin, you're your baby your hands so she can 'consent' to the massage (she'll turn his head or roll away if she's not interested). To get started, smooth a few drops of edible oil such as olive or sweet almond oil into your warm hands.

Lay your baby on her back on a blanket on the floor.
Sit so you feel supported, breathing deeply.
Begin with an m- or heart-shaped movement. Start with hands in the centre of your baby's chest and move hands up, outward, and down with light pressure.
Repeat several times as you sing a favourite tune.
Next, use a gentle "milking" touch—a very gentle squeezing, beginning at baby's upper leg and slowly moving out to the foot and toes. Keep singing as you repeat the milking touch on each of baby's arms and legs.
Invite baby's grandparent to suggest a favourite nursery song that would also be appropriate for this activity.

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