Why Family Music Classes Build Stronger Bonds

Family Music Classes: A Pathway to Connection

Family music classes—like Music Together®—aren’t just fun (though they absolutely are!). They support early childhood development, boost long-term cognitive growth, and perhaps most beautifully, they help humans connect. Deeply.

The Importance of Early Childhood Music Education

One of the most fascinating things about early childhood is how children are hardwired to respond to the voices of their parents and caregivers. A perfect example of this happens during movement activities in Music Together® infant classes. As parents sing, move, and dance around their babies who are lying on the floor, the babies begin searching for their person's voice. They know that voice so well—it comforts them, grounds them, and has been part of their world since birth.

As families circle around, singing together, the babies kick, wiggle, and coo in excitement. This kind of interaction doesn’t happen through screens or speakers—it’s live, human connection at its most natural.

The Magic of Lullabies

Another special moment happens during the lullaby. After 40 minutes of active music-making, playing with instruments, and dancing, children settle in close to their grownups. It’s a quiet, soothing time—perfect for snuggles and bonding.

These moments are crucial. They not only foster musical development but also help build a sense of community. When people sing together, something remarkable happens—they feel more connected. But why is that?

The Science Behind Singing Together

It turns out there’s science behind it. When we sing with others, our bodies release feel-good hormones like oxytocin. Oxytocin is often called the “bonding hormone.” It’s the same hormone released during other meaningful social interactions—like hugging, breastfeeding, or even sharing a heartfelt conversation.

Singing, especially in a group, stimulates that same response, thanks to the social engagement and synchronicity involved. And speaking of synchronicity—did you know that when people sing together, their heartbeats can actually sync up? Wild, right?

The Power of One-on-One Moments

Even in a quiet, one-on-one moment—like a parent singing to a child—oxytocin is still released. For a little one, this builds a deep sense of safety, comfort, and love. It’s one of the many reasons singing is such a powerful tool for strengthening family bonds.

The Joy of Shared Experiences

Beyond the science, there’s the simple joy of showing up together. Attending class each week, making music side-by-side, and creating something joyful and meaningful together—that’s bonding too. When it's made into a special activity shared between caregiver and child, it becomes a memory, a tradition, a shared experience.

Building Skills Through Music

It's important that we offer families and children a safe place to explore music and to help support the exposure of music to children at an early age. This exposure helps support their motor skills, language skills, social skills, and also helps them develop empathy.

Music Together® classes provide an environment where children can thrive. They learn to express themselves, interact with others, and develop a love for music that can last a lifetime.

Conclusion: A Pathway to Connection

So yes, family music classes are fun. But they’re also a pathway to connection—one song, one snuggle, one moment at a time.

Curious to experience it for yourself? Join a Music Together® class and discover how music can bring you and your little one even closer. Whether it’s your first class or your fifth session, each week offers new opportunities to play, sing, and bond—together.

Sign up for a class today or learn more about what to expect. Let the music bring your family even closer.