Baby / Toddler socialisation needs

Why Social Interaction is so important for Babies and Toddlers

Let’s see, are you always looking for new ways to help your little one grow and develop? Yes? Well, one of the most fun—and surprisingly impactful—things you can do for your baby or toddler is signing them up for a baby playgroup.

So we created “Tippytoes Music Playgroup”, a music & movement programme designed specially for babies and toddlers 8 months – 2 years old.

It’s not just about making music (though that’s definitely fun!), it’s also about all the social skills they pick up along the way.

Let’s chat about why music classes are so great for babies and toddlers, especially when it comes to socializing, sharing, and building confidence. Trust me, these early social interactions are HUGE for their development!

Why Socializing in Music Classes Matters

It’s no secret that kids learn by playing, and music classes are the perfect place to get them started on key social skills. Even if your baby is as young as 8 months, there’s so much happening in these classes—interacting with other kids, following along with songs, and learning how to share and take turns.

These little moments might seem small, but they set the foundation for your child’s emotional and social growth as they get older.

Here are some of the social skills they’ll pick up (without even realizing it!)

Learning to Share and Take Turns. Sharing isn’t always easy for the little ones, but in a group music class, they’ll get tons of opportunities to practice. Whether it’s passing around a tambourine or waiting for their turn with the maracas, your child is learning patience and how to share with others in a fun, no-pressure setting.

You might even find it a little easier to teach them to share at home after they’ve had these practice sessions in class!

Following Group Instructions. Ever tried getting your baby or toddler to follow instructions?

It can definitely be a challenge sometimes – especially once they discover the power of the word “No”!

In a music class, though, they begin to get the hang of following simple group directions, like “clap your hands” or “bounce up and down.” They may not be perfect at it yet, but it’s a great first step toward understanding how to participate in a group and respond to cues from others. This skill helps them not just in music, but also in school, on playdates, and even at home.

Making Friends and Building Confidence

Watching your baby or toddler interact with other kids is such a sweet moment! And guess what? Music classes are a perfect place to start building those little friendships. Whether they’re smiling at another child or getting excited over the same song, they start learning how to interact with peers.

These positive experiences boost their confidence and help them feel secure in social situations.

Why Mixed-Age Classes at Tippytoes Music Playgroup

While it might sound like chaos, it’s actually a wonderful thing! For the younger babies, watching the older kids can be super stimulating and even help them learn new things. Plus, toddlers who are a little older get to take on a leadership role, showing the younger kids how to do things or offering them comfort if they’re unsure.

It’s a win-win for everyone: the older toddlers gain empathy and leadership skills, and the younger babies get to observe and learn from them.

It’s like a little community where everyone supports each other. And sometimes, those mixed-age interaction moments appear right before your eyes, and they are magical!

The Bottom Line: It’s All About the Socializing

So, here’s the takeaway: social interaction in music classes isn’t just about making music (though that’s fun too!). It’s about giving your baby or toddler a place to practice important social skills like sharing, taking turns, following instructions, and building confidence. Plus, those mixed-age classes? Total game-changer for social learning.

So, if you’re already thinking of signing up for a baby playgroup, give Tippytoes Music Playgroup a try!

You’ll be amazed at how your little one grows socially, emotionally, and even cognitively just from a few fun music sessions.

Check out our Class Schedule

Here are some great articles about how music helps your baby or toddler develop. Have a little read!