Repetition, repetition, repetition…
Repetition is one of the most powerful tools for child development and for creating a meaningful, enjoyable experience for older residents in our Songs & Smiles sessions. Let us explain why this intentional approach is so beneficial for everyone involved.
The developmental magic of repetition for little ones
Babies and toddlers thrive on repetition. While it may seem simple to us as adults, doing the same actions, hearing the same songs, and repeating familiar routines are foundational for our little one’s development. Here’s how repetition works its magic:
Building brain connections
Every time your little one claps, waves, or bounces along to a familiar song, neural pathways are strengthened in their brain. Repetition reinforces learning and helps them understand patterns, anticipate what’s coming next, and feel a sense of achievement when they “get it right.”Confidence through familiarity
Hearing the same songs and experiencing the same routines builds confidence in toddlers. Familiarity helps them feel safe and secure, which is crucial for trying new things—like interacting with others, exploring movement, or playing instruments.Language and Communication Skills
When the same songs are sung week after week, children start recognising words and associating them with actions. This repetition helps with language acquisition, memory, and understanding concepts like rhythm and rhyme.
How repetition benefits older residents
The repetitive nature of Songs & Smiles doesn’t just benefit the little ones; it’s also incredibly meaningful for the older adults in our sessions. Here’s why:
Familiar tunes spark joy
For many of our residents, hearing familiar songs can be deeply comforting and can evoke positive memories. Music is often used in dementia care for this very reason—it has the power to reconnect people with happy moments from their past.Reducing cognitive load
Repetition creates predictability, which can be especially important for older people who may have memory or cognitive challenges. Familiar routines and songs reduce confusion and help them fully enjoy the session.Strengthening intergenerational bonds
When older residents recognise the same songs and actions as the children, it fosters a shared sense of connection. Singing and moving together builds relationships across generations in a joyful and meaningful way.
Mixing it up—A little!
While the core structure of each Songs & Smiles session remains consistent—including the 'Hello,' 'Goodbye,' and 'Tidy Up' songs, along with firm favourites like 'Peek-a-Boo' and 'I Can Sing a Rainbow' with scarves—some sections, such as the nursery rhymes and popular music, change each week to add a touch of variety. These small changes are designed to keep the sessions fresh while preserving the developmental benefits of repetition.
The unexpected benefits of singing and dancing together
Songs & Smiles packs a remarkable amount into just one hour. Beyond reducing loneliness for parents, guardians, and older people, the programme incorporates evidence-based approaches to child development. Singing, movement, social interaction, and sensory stimuli like bubbles and simple instruments (that everyone can hold) promote rhythm, coordination, and confidence for children while stimulating the senses and encouraging joyful connection for everyone involved.
Keep singing with us!
Each clap, song, and bubble burst is a building block in your child’s development and a source of joy for our older residents. Thank you for being part of this wonderful intergenerational community—together, we’re creating something truly special.