Dads, like-a-dads, uncles, grandfathers…the male caregiver role is hugely important to early nurturing and positive whole-child development.
To amplify their presence and put it to the tune of fun, we created Superdad Soundwaves, on the free Kindermusik app. And we’ve got an activity you can pair with it below!
What the research says…
Studies show that fatherhood involvement in the early years makes a big difference.
Researchers from Imperial College London, King’s College London and Oxford University found that “babies whose fathers were more engaged and active when playing with them in their initial months performed better in cognitive tests at two years of age.”
And a study conducted by the University of Leeds showed that fathers who regularly and intentionally engaged their three-year-olds by reading, drawing, singing, and playing “helped their children do better at school by age five.”
Empowering dads with the tools they need to keep that engagement going is where musical play can really help. It’s a multisensory activity that’s portable, screen-free, and fun!
Try our Dad Album activity…
- Stream “Love Somebody” from the Superdad Soundwaves album in the free Kindermusik app or play it below.
- Follow the movement directions—dancing high/low, bouncing, clapping, etc.
- Each time you hear “you, you, you,” give your child a big hug or point to them.
The benefits…
This activity is full of cognitive, social-emotional, and motor benefits, but we love that:
- Matching movements to lyrics promotes understanding and language acquisition.
- Synchronizing movements synchronizes your heartbeats and bodies, promoting connection.
Keep that family engagement going…
Intentional time is the best time. Make it part of your daily routines, and growth and connection will skyrocket.
Whether you’re looking for more no-cost resources like this one, a grownup-and-me class near you, or home visiting or teaching tools, we’ve got a solution for that.
