Invite an infant to sit near you on the floor to listen to music. Sit facing the infant and within reach of the music player. Offer a big smile and explain what will happen. Example: “We are going to listen to music. We are going to move our bodies with the music! Are you ready?” Point to your ears when you mention listening to music. Move your body slightly when you describe moving your body. Do not pursue the music and movement if the infant shows clear signs of no interest.

Begin playing the music and demonstrate gentle movements by swaying your upper body back and forth. Smile and encourage the infant to do the same with his/her body. Many mobile infants will naturally begin to move their head and upper body with music. Offer additional prompting and demonstration, if necessary. Some infants may enjoy standing and holding both of your hands while moving his/her whole body with the music. End the activity if the infant shows signs of disinterest or distress at any time.

Describe the infant’s actions. Examples: “You had fun moving your body with the music, Brody!” “You didn’t feel like moving your body today, Siri. You enjoyed sitting to listen to the music.”

After several minutes of music and movement, ask the infant to sit and rest with you. The infant may want to sit near you or on your lap. Provide quiet time for the infant to calm him/herself. If needed, support the infant by patting his/her back, quietly humming or singing a favorite song, and/or offering gentle reminders that it is time to rest. Recognize and acknowledge the infant’s behavior as he/she becomes calm after the activity. Example: “You had fun moving your body with music. Now you are sitting with me and resting. We are feeling calm.”