When it comes to learning, some parents overlook the importance of music. Not only is music a great way to help kids learn new concepts, it is important for children to learn about music in general. Music can be a wonderful outlet for kids of all ages, including adults. In addition, music can become a great passion, hobby, or even career. Furthermore, research has shown that children who are involved with music tend to perform better in school and to be better adjusted socially.

Music Learning Toys for Baby

Music learning begins from birth. There are many different musical mobiles available that can help to both stimulate your baby as well as begin to instill an appreciation for music. These mobiles can be hung over your baby’s crib or car seat. In addition, there are many play mats that include music learning.

One great play mat for the infant is the Musical Play Garden by Fisher-Price. This adorable play mat is soft and safe for babies and offers loads of fun. Beyond its exciting lights and sounds, it is capable of playing five different tunes. Your baby will love this toy because it is filled with so many fun things to do, including a springy flower, a peek-a-boo bird, and a cuddly duck. All of these toys can be moved around on the mat to keep it fresh and different, helping to increase your baby’s stimulation – all while laying the foundation for music learning.

Music Learning Toys for the Toddler

As your baby begins to enter into the toddler stage, the music learning toys need to change too. Your toddler is ready to take his learning up a notch, which can be done with the Music Blocks Mozart Set by Neurosmith. This toy is made to look similar to a colorful radio and actually helps your toddler learn about songs and instruments while having fun playing!

The Music Blocks Mozart Set effectively introduces children to classical music, such as Mozart’s “Night Music,” and starts them in the process of learning how to identify instruments, such as violins, woodwinds, trumpets, xylophones, and percussion instruments. By moving the blocks around that are included with the toy, your toddler can actually change the songs and create his own music.

The toy even comes complete with a helpful book for parents called “Music and Your Child’s Mind,” which gives parents ideas for including classical music in the child’s life. As the toddler becomes older, the toy can actually grow with him. For example, you can purchase additional cartridges in order to make different sounds. You can even challenge your child to recreate specific musical patterns. In the meantime, any combination your child chooses to create is guaranteed to sound wonderful.

Music Learning Toys for the Preschooler and Early Elementary Child

When your toddler begins to develop more dexterity, it is time to start playing with some real instruments. A good choice at this age is the Bob McGrath Rhythm Band Set and CD. Kids of this age will immediately be drawn to the toy when they see McGrath of Sesame Street fame. After the package is opened up – watch out! Your child will absolutely love playing with the tambourine, woodblock, sand blocks, and triangle, Tom Boys, rhythm sticks, finger cymbals and maracas included in the set. Give your child some time to experiment with each of these instruments, then guide her toward learning more about rhythm and music theory with the help of the play-along CD that is also included. In addition, this toy comes in a reusable box with a handle, making it easy to store the instruments or to take them from place to place.

Music Learning Toys for the Middle Elementary Child

Now, that your child understands rhythm and has a basic appreciation for music, it is time to start expanding it further. A Teaching Music Keyboard by Casio is ideal for this task. The 61 keys, full size board offers 100 rhythms and 50 songs already built in. You child will love creating and recording his own songs and rhythms on the keyboard, which is capable of saving two different songs at a time.

Music Learning Toys for the Upper Elementary Child

Once your child gets a bit older, she will certainly be interested in mixing her own music. The One Man Jammer DJ Mixer from MGA Entertainment will allow her to do just that! This music-learning toy lets your child mix music from two turntables. She can even broadcast the music on her own AM radio station!