The Mozart Effect
Does classical music make babies smarter?
A popular theory is known among pregnant mothers and mothers with infant children. They call it the Mozart Effect, a theory which is known to enhance the intelligence quotient of babies. Experts say that classical music may stimulate the brain in a way that it helps the educational and emotional development of infants. The theory is also known to improve health, and strengthen family ties.
Numerous studies conclude that playing music to babies in the womb and in the early years helps build the neural bridges along which thoughts and information travel. And research suggests it can stimulate the brain’s alpha waves, creating a feeling of calm; a recent study of premature infants found that they were soothed by the music.
Many classical CDs and DVDs are available in the market for these very young children which are based on this theory. There are also laws that are passed which require playing classical music in pre-schools, like the state-funded ones in Florida. A number of US hospitals also give classical CDs to new mothers. In the UK, there is even a Music special for babies in their classical music radio stations.
.
Adding up to the list of services which embraces the theory are baby concerts. Yes, these are concerts especially for babies (including those still inside their mommies’ womb). They call it baby proms, where babies and toddlers are the main audience in concert halls. Unlike formal outfits worn and first-class concert theatres as venues of classical concerts, baby proms are more relaxed and comfortable, beanbags correspond to the orchestra seats and music pieces are well-selected to benefit the wellbeing of babies, toddlers and parents. (: