Music Brings People Together and Spreads Kindness to the World
Music has the ability to bring people together like no other force on earth. It has the power to transcend language barriers, to connect people of all ages and backgrounds, and to create a sense of community. Nowhere is this more evident than in the way music can bring joy and kindness to children and families.
There is something special about hearing a child sing along to a favorite song. It is a moment of pure happiness that can fill even the darkest of days with light. Research shows that music gives us a brain boost and improves cognitive function and happiness. Additionally, music can be a powerful tool for teaching children about cooperation and sharing. When children come together to sing or play instruments, they learn the value of working together towards a common goal. In a world that often seems divided and angry, music reminds us that we are all connected by our humanity. By sharing the gift of music with children, we give them the priceless gift of hope and happiness.
With gratitude,
—MiaLisa Millares, Executive Director
ACTIONS: WAYS TO BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER WITH MUSIC
Music offers unique and creative ways to share kindness. Here are some ideas for embracing your children’s love of music.
Connect with Seniors and Sing. Music has the ability to transport us back in time, conjuring up memories of specific people and moments from our past. For seniors living in nursing homes, these memories can be particularly precious. Unfortunately, many of these individuals do not have the opportunity to hear live music on a regular basis. However, there are a number of ways that children can volunteer to share music with seniors and bring them joy. One option is to visit nursing homes and perform for the residents. Alternatively, children can participate in sing-alongs or even give impromptu concerts in common areas. No matter how it is done, sharing music with seniors is a great way to bring them happiness and take them back in time.
Listen to DGT’s collection of Big-Hearted songs – then create your own list of uplifting music to share.
Collect and Donate Instruments. Many kids have old musical instruments from when they were younger. Take up a collection of unused musical instruments from your community to donate to a school music program in need. These organizations might be able to offer direction.
Listen to Music Together and Dance. There's nothing like sharing a special song with your family. Whether it's a heartwarming ballad or an upbeat tune, music has a way of bringing people together. Playing music in the home can create lasting memories and build strong bonds between family members. Best of all, music can inspire a feel-good phenomenon that makes us happier.
Family Karaoke Night. Another way to use music in your home is to do a family karaoke night. There are lots of apps now that let you set up a queue and sing to your heart’s content. When we listen to happy songs, our brains release dopamine, a chemical that makes us feel pleasure. So next time you're feeling down, try a family karaoke night to engage all of your family in some good old-fashioned fun. You may even be inspired to share the joy by singing along with your loved ones. After all, sharing music is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to spread kindness. See our big-hearted playlist for ideas to help get started.
Advocate with Music. Since the beginning of time, music has been used as a means of expressing ideas and emotions. It has the power to bring people together, to inspire hope, and to promote change. Music has increasingly been used as a tool for advocating for human rights and social justice. From anthems of the civil rights movement to protest songs of the present day, music has played a vital role in raising awareness and promoting action on behalf of those who have been marginalized or oppressed. In a world that is often divided by hatred and intolerance, music can be a powerful force for good, bringing people together and reminding us of our common humanity. As we continue to fight for a better world, let us never forget the power of music to touch hearts and change lives. Create a playlist of social change songs and share it. Find examples here, here, and here.
Volunteer Listings
Are you looking for opportunities in your area to volunteer with your kids? Check out our free volunteer listings. Simply subscribe to the list and receive a free monthly email that details a number of different opportunities in your community to give back as a family.
CONVERSATIONS
What kind of music do you enjoy?
Have you listened to music without lyrics?
Can you identify different types of instruments that are playing in a song?
Does music tell a story? What does it say? Can you write your story down?
How does music make you feel?
Do different types of music make you feel different emotions?
Do you listen to different types of music at different points of the day?
READ
Sing a Song: How “Lift Every Voice and Sing” Inspired Generations
by Kelly Starling Lyons
The uplifting story of the brothers who wrote the “The Black National Anthem” and how it became a force for change.
Picture Books to Inspire Kindness Through Music
Learn more about inspiring kindness from stories of music, one picture book or podcast at a time!
INSPIRATION
“Music can change the world because it can change people.”
—Bono