Babies from 7 to 10 months old were exposed to three specific melodies, and then to some slightly different melodies (Trehub 2). The infants seemed to have an obviously negative reaction toward the altered songs. This goes to show how the human brain craves consistency. Therefore, when infants are exposed to music repeatedly it has a great effect that can help with things like language and tonal development. Not only does the introduction of music in early childhood effect a child, but even prenatal steps can be taken to further enhance these effects.
One might assume that rhythm and sound would only effect the language and tonal growth in infants. However, "From the developmental perspective, children have to first be able to feel rhythm in their bodies before ever successfully interpreting it in their minds" (Levinowitz 2). This happens naturally in the womb and after a baby is born and is rocked back and forth. This movement is priming children to be able to do things like walk, sing, and dance in the future. It was also stated that, "The first six years of a child's life are absolutely critical for them to be able to understand the images and sounds going through their minds (Levinowitz 1). Letting infants and toddlers experience music does not just give them something catchy to listen to, but it also give their brain a challenge. This acts as an exercise for their under- developed minds and allows them to grow intellectually and perceive the world and what is going on around them more effectively. People do not just come out of the womb ready to comprehend everything that they hear or feel, it must be learned through subtle training and experience.
As they grow into their personalities, kids become more individualized and fit in with certain social groups. Also, the way society views certain genres of music can affect the music preferences of children, especially with the pop culture stigma.
