Lullabies sung by parents and live music performed by music therapists appeared to have a positive effect on premature babies’ heart function and breathing, according to a study published in Pediatrics.
One clinical trial found playing Brahm’s lullaby to premature infants increased their blood oxygen levels significantly. Other research identified infants’ cortisol—stress hormone—levels regulate when listening to music, calming stressed babies and sharpening the focus of infants at rest.
Words and language of the song do not appear to affect the outcome. Parents of all children may find that singing to an anxious or upset child may help him or her feel better. Try slowing down any song with a soothing refrain to improve his or her mood or lull your child to sleep.
Learn the basics of caring for your baby at medlineplus.gov.
